[Louken]

Look at BMW dealers, (not just BMW dealerships) in the region. That will also be how you will argue the value of your car. Dont even bother looking until you get your check, and don't be afraid to move onto something different, there are a lot of good cars out there, and it's pretty risky buying an e46. You might even find an early 325i e90 with a 6 speed in your budget when the check finally clears.

 

[Louken]

The 525s are MS43 M54, 528s are MS42 M52. I think you either have 525 or a 540 to choose when it comes to E39 Touring. The dealerships are good places to scan for e39 wagons, that's one of the cars that actually gets traded in after 2 decades. There was one for sale here at Bert Smith BMW for under 6k.