I looked at 4runners for a month before I bought mine. Nice 4runners with low mileage, as in under 100k around here, and in nice shape, not needing anything will sell for up to $6500. I've heard of at least 3 4runners stolen with a month's time as well.
I bought mine down in Oregon for $2800, and have to put another $2470 to fix some stuff and do some maintenance work, I'm not equipped with to fix. So my investment is over $5000. I'm closing up on 290k and this thing is running real nice now. If I knew I was going to put this much into the truck, I would have bought a different one. But in hindsight, I see that essentially paying half a month ago to buy, and half now, it was "affordable". Call me crazy, but I'm attached to my 4runner now. I'm in this for the long haul . . .
I've kept an eye out on the market here and have noticed prices are going up. People are asking between $4-7k, even a 200k+ model for $5000.
One benefit of the work I've had done is that the it's been gone over by two different mechanics, and I have a one year warranty on parts and labor from the shop that did the work. I know the guys and trust them, so that's a bonus.
My only warning is that on a high mileage vehicle, expect the unexpected, or at least, be prepared for it, so you aren't regretting your decision.
With all that said, I agree with the others that the dealer is asking too much
