This entire discussion goes back to the “buy the seller” concept. Do some due diligence, ask questions, look at feedback. F&F has become more a standard now as PayPal has implemented several new “security” policies that hold money, cause problems with transaction timing etc. Frankly, it is making PayPal less and less attractive to use as a whole. I use F&F now as a seller, I have deep feedback, all positive. If a potential buyer is not ok with that, that’s fine. I generally buy with F&F as well, unless I want to finance the purchase in some way. Then I usually negotiate with the seller at some level. Regarding insurance, as mentioned that’s on the seller. If the item gets lost or is DOA due to shipping damage, that’s on the seller. Their loss if they didn’t buy insurance. Postal insurance is a money grab, it rarely pays out if there is a problem that is shipping damage related. EBay’s systems are an exception. They do a pretty good job, oddly enough.
Has buying and/or selling audio gear changed?
Hi Everyone, I've been a longtime observer on Audiogon but this is my first post. I recently ran into a situation that was new to me as I've recently sold some of my gear and I'm in the process of replacing it. I've used the normal websites (Audiogon, US Audiomart, TMR, etc) and those transactions have been smooth without any issues. I normally use PP Goods and Services as well as insurance with shipping. However, I recently was on a website of a well-known individual in the industry who has a piece of equipment that was reasonable priced. No, it wasn't a "too good to be true" price but was in the ballpark of what one would expect. As we were ready to finalize the sale, he informed me that he only does PayPal F&F and he won't insure the product for shipping stating this is now the industry standard and it was non-negotiable. Is this the new standard and all my other recent transactions were non-typical because I used PP Goods & Services and made sure the shipping had insurance to try and provide some protection? I don't live close enough to buy the gear in person and I've bought and sold across the US and never had a problem but always used Goods and Services for peace of mind for the unexpected issue or problem. For the record, I'm only interested in conversation that is related to what the industry standard is, not the individual involved here. Let me know your thoughts.