I was shopping for a 3040, 3045 and wound up buying a 4060.
I like NH compact and have had good luck with the 1520 (Ford) I bought in 1989.
I assume your 3040 is an open platform, with hydro and I assume the loader is a 250TL.
It is a nice machine and I am sure that you will be pleased with it. (super steer is a nice option). The tractor is well built and has a nice balance of weight and power, in my opinion.
The 3045 I looked at, late 2009 with hyro, 250tl FEL and 1 rear scv was 27K, so 24K sounds like a reasonable number. Also , my price was cash.
In March 10. the price became 29K for the 3045 and 33K for the 4060, with 270TL FEL w. Q/A. rear scv, EHSS trans , grill guard.....
I am a sales/marketing guy, I did not want to beat the sales guy to death... If you look around, you get to know what the equipment is worth and what the options are worth. A good dealer is important in my opinion.
I liike to buy from the guy/ or lady I feel comfortable with..
Good luck
Johno Geo