Are you seeing more 9/10s?


In my recent round of upgrade fever I had what was for me a new experience: shameless Audiogon condition rating inflation. Maybe once as an Audiogon seller have I rated an item 9/10. But three pieces I purchased recently were rated 9/10. Two of the pieces were nearly ten years old. One seller told me in correspondence that "for its age it's a true 9/10!" 9/10 means (1) less than a year old, (2) very light use, and (3) physically indistinguishable from new. None of the three met these base requirements. I eventually purchased them because they were priced appropriately and through much private conversation I verified their true condition (7/10 and 8/10). I remember when it seemed that all sellers went to great pains to rate conservatively and fully describe flaws. It frustrates me to have to approach listings from a default of skepticism and become Mr. Buyer Detective. Is this new? Am I seeing phantoms? Overreacting?
chuckjonez
I believe 10/10 is the only rating with an age requirement. Less than one year old (and in perfect condition). 
Hmmm, interesting thread, I have repeatedly questioned "new" ratings, been blocked by the seller who got mad when I asked questions. I would not buy toilet paper from anyone who gets irritated by being questioned. I can say I have had some great experiences also. All of them were happy to answer my inquiries and did so in a timely fashion. 3 month ago i made a transaction where seller said it was "Mint" condition. Unit is 14 years old. On communicating many times we came to an agreement. When I received it I have to say it was truly in "Mint" condition, not new but not a mark, scratch or other fault anywhere. Seller disclosed every little item down to the condition of the original packaging and wear on the remote. He rated it 8/10 due to age. Now that' honesty. We'e still talking to this day and will continue to do so. That is rare. My motto is Buyer beware of non communicating sellers.
I specifically searched for a thread dealing with this topic after seeing numerous ads containing what I believe to be inflated ratings.  I've been a member a long time and don't recall a time when ratings were so far from conservative. 

In our small community, I do believe honor matters; it doesn't take long to compromise a reputation.  Speaking idealistically, I'd like to see us all strive to be honest brokers. 

On a side note, I would add that in the realm of electronics, age does matter.  An item may look new but components may degrade with age.