I think it is odd, but kinda cool, that a gun that is solidly 19th-century in concept is still one of the best light rifle types in the 21st. I've shot up-to-date rifles of various types but enjoy this one more, if the idea is just that I need an intermediate caliber rifle for who knows what, no particular scenario like run and gun matches, or fending off the zombie apocalypse.
As to the OP's question, and his preference to stay out of the used-guns marketplace on this one, I am happy to learn that Marlins are working right again. Though a Winchester man myself, I must in honesty admit that a good Marlin is good indeed. The two makes have been heel-and-toe competitors for more than a century. Since Winchester has priced itself out of the market with short runs of really nice guns from Miroku, well, there's your answer. I suggest you buy a new Marlin.