I’ve purchased thousands upon many thousands on 98% used gear for 30 years. I began with rec.audio.marketplace. In ‘95 through’97 Audio Review was the hottest used gear site on the internet. Then came along an upstart called Audiogon in ‘97. AG was never better than those first 5 years.
Only once did I get burned on buying a listed item. The seller requested a prepaid money order for an amplifier that was listed for $400 less than it should have been. Turns out that 7 people paid for and purchased the same amplifier. It was on AG. $1100 lesson learned.
Buying used isn’t a big deal as some make it out to be. You cover yourself by paying via Credit Card, preferably Amex. Even Visa or MC will honor a charge back and return your every penny. So where’s the risk? It’s non existent.
The fact your purchase is covered will eliminate any paranoia for PayPal purchases. If a seller insists on FF simply understand that he’s not your seller and move on. There’s plenty more gear options available from other sellers who understand that the marketplace isn’t what it used to be. For in the 90’s we’d simply send someone a check in the mail. Those days are gone.
I’ve purchased on AM, here obviously, and eBay. 95% of sellers are honest people. But today’s buyers don’t have to take on that risk for the 5% who are shady. Good luck!