I agree the TCS3 ZO 196 prices had stabilized in the $25k-28k range. I bought one in that range two years ago that I enjoy. I had watched 196 prices for a while, purchasing a TSC or TSC2 boat with the idea of doing an engine swap or conversion no longer seemed economical. I did see a few swapped or converted boats during my search I was always worried about maintenance and resale for me down the road. Since you already own the boat and have a motor its likely different for you.
The COVID-19 era is different. There are a few 07-09 196s with ZO for sale for $26,500 around the country, some for several months.
These two boats recently sold near me.
08 196 $10k https://www.ebay.com/itm/254544326459
08 206 $15k https://www.ebay.com/itm/2006-Ski-Nautique-206-with-trailer/254545565456
They had been used as summer camp boats, the hour meters were broken and estimated at 2k. They didn’t have speed control. The camp owner wouldn’t allow them to be water tested or taken to a dealer to read ECU for hours prior to sale. The 08 196 went for $10k and the 08 206 for $15k as a pair. I wish I had bought the 196 but would have needed to water test, to reduce the risk before the purchase. Not an indication of a normal boat transaction but perhaps an indication of the weird market we are in.
Good luck with your decision.