I think they started in 05 with the solid color
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I would verify if indeed its a SPECIAL EDITION EB. As posted earlier check the vin number on ford etis.com Salesmen are well known for giving false information in order to justify an over priced vehicle or to make a sale.
Update
In doing some checking there is another Expy just like the one you are looking at same color and trim is also colored. When looking up the vin number of that Expy it shows
Paint: Redfire
With Bodycolour Wheel Lip Moulding
Body Coloured Exterior Door Handle
Monochromatic Appearance Package (Not sure what that is)
Seller has whats known as a "Premier Edition Eddie Bauer". I've seen a couple in black but none in red. No idea how many were made, I've read that it was a late production change-up, so you won't read about it in brochures or literature. Package was only available on late 2004's and replaced with Limited package on 2005 model year.
Exterior wise the hitch wiring is the only thing that does not appear factory.
Special edition or not, 8000 dollars, isn't that a lot for a '04 Expedition?