I hear your vent and feel your pain! I sold off most of my vintage stuff back in 2013 and just recently started collecting again and the sticker shock is off the charts. As far as grading goes, I buy some graded stuff but I really prefer raw cards so I have to be careful that what I am buying is legit. I am just going to rely on the expertise of this board and ask for guidance when I am going to make a relative large purchase as long as I do not wear out my welcome with the experts.
. Also, I still think there are some decent deals to be made if I take my time but that is very hard for me as I like instant gratification most of the time.