Been lurking a bit but I'm new both to here and to analog (first roll of 35mm film is sitting in my first film camera since the point and shoots I had as a kid, chems are in the mail). I've been wanting to get a 6x6 and am drawn toward TLRs, specifically Rolleiflexes. I'm not completely opposed to other brands but I have a clear preference for the Rollei style. I want to find a nice one in excellent condition, but keep in mind I want a user, not a collector, so quality over rarity or prestige.
Being that this would be my first MF camera, I'd probably take it hiking, and I'm kind of testing the waters, so I'd like to keep the prices down. I still don't really want to sacrifice much on quality or durability, just not interested in trendy special features.
I prefer to buy from known people on classifieds or reputable shops like keh, eBay is a last resort. I know a CLA is likely going to be needed, but are there any shops that at least test and certify performance before a sale? I know CLA is an eventuality but it would be nice to know I was at least buying one that didn't need it right away so I could get some use out of it first. What are some good online stores? Keh doesn't have any and I've only found some on one store page in the UK.
Finally, I think I found one I like, but the price made me cautious. It's on the site if a reputable store. It's labeled as a standard MX, but by the photos to me I think it's an MX-EVS. It's only $200 while T models in similar condition are $350 and others are significantly more. From what I could tell by research the MX are pretty good, and I didn't read about any deficiencies compared to other typical 3.5s. I did come across a Rollei technician that on his page said that he doesn't service T models because they're inferior to other 'flexes and he can't warranty them, and equates them as being closer to a Rolleicord. Where does the MX and MX-EVS stand? Are they skimped on or as good of quality? Wondering if the price is right because they aren't trendy or because they aren't as good. I've read that T prices are inflated because they're trending.
Sorry for the long first post, my brain is getting scattered from too much reading about these online.
Edit: I should probably mention my budget. While I liked the $200 price of that MX, that isn't my budget cap. I'm willing to spend about double that. That could be that MX and a CLA, or $450 or so for one that doesn't need a CLA. I think $500 on one that already needed a CLA would be pushing my budget further than I wanted for a first camera. I'm sure I'll end up there eventually though. That's the main reason I ask if any stores test and certify their cameras. Whether or not it needs an immediate trip to the shop has a significant effect on my budget.