Christmas Scalping

I'm a bit sad and more than a bit angry.  It seems people are scalping Harry Potter Lego sets like concert tickets.  I'd thought about buying the new Hogwarts Castle set, and noticed that Amazon was out of stock, but said "in stock Dec. 6".  Well, it's Dec. 5 and they no longer say anything about getting it in stock.  But they do list other sellers that have it in stock... for  2 times the original price!  Grrrrr.   Discussion forums on Amazon say that some companies are even buying up stock, then jacking up the price when Amazon is out of stock.  And they pay Amazon to store and ship their inventory!

And list price / MSRP (manufacturer's suggested retail price) aren't listed anymore [expletives deleted].  At least they still list the lowest prices first.  It took a little digging, but I've compiled price info on the 5 most popular Harry Potter Lego sets.  It was a bit confusing, with several different part numbers for the same set.  It seems older versions are being sold at much higher prices as "collector items."  (loud gnashing of teeth).

Anyway, here's the best I've been able to piece together on the 5 most popular sets, rounding everything to the nearest dollar.
The Burrows  List price $60.  In stock at Amazon for $60.
Quidditch Match  List price $20.  Out of stock.  Amazon "other sellers" have it for $34 .... to $100!!
Hogwarts Express  List price $80.  In stock at Amazon for $80
Hogwarts Castle  List price $130 (?).  Out of stock.  Amazon "other sellers" have it for $212 ... to $350 ...
Free Dobby  List price $11.  In stock at Amazon for $10.
Hagrids Hut  List price $50.  Out of stock.  Amazon "other sellers" have it for $79 to $100.

What to do?  I don't mind paying a bit more for something that's in high demand and short supply, but 2 to 3 times?  No thank you, I'll wait.  If there's another opportunity, I'll try a pre-order and hope I get lucky.  If you were planning to give Hogwarts Castle as a gift, here's a suggestion.  Give Hogwarts Express, and attach a big note right on the front that says the Express will be arriving at the Castle on March (whatever, pick a date).