After losing numerous auctions or bowing out after computing hardtop price + shipping + painting as too expensive, I found mine on CL for $700.00. I immediately called the guy to check on availability and when he said yes, I went to my bank, got the cash, drove over to meet him and had him help me put it on my car to take home....ordered the spinlocks at that time as well.
Diligence and perseverance is definitely the key to finding a hardtop and when you find one that is priced right...don't hesitate. If you end up not wanting it, you surely won't lose any money on it if you decide to sell it...that is unless you buy it from the dealer...