How to tell if some one legit

@phd 
i got flag once for gave out the phone number on audiogon.

... email him for his phone number. When you get it, call him because a phone call will give you a better sense on what type of person you are dealing with. If he refuses then tell him you're done.

+1

0 feedback 0 purchase.

The best way to deal with a member with zero feedback is to email him for his phone number. When you get it, call him because a phone call will give you a better sense on what type of person you are dealing with. If he refuses then tell him you're done. I know you can't use numeral digits in audiogon emails but you can spell it out in the email like:  two five three- two two three- five eight seven four, that should go through.

@viridian , I'll never buy without clear and sharp pictures. More pictures better chance. I'll never buy from overseas, ever. I'll never buy without really good communication before the sale. 
Communication is the best defense to avoid unpleasant transactions.

NO feedback is not a reason to pass. I just completed a transaction for some major Benjamins and could not be happier. Great guy to deal with, very upfront and communicative. Answered all questions timely and fully. Joined Agon this month and  placed his first ad.  0 feedback but now he's  got a glowing one. Deeply discounted his product and had many views but only one bite which he turned down. Was also an authorized dealer for the product. I did some diligent research and learned a lot about him before the sale. Spoke on phone, texted, messaged etc.  We finally came to agreement and I did the transaction. Within 2 days the item was at my door exactly as described and in superb condition. I spoke in depth to him about the product and why he was selling. His words were to give someone a chance to get some really nice equipment. I'm thrilled it was me that got lucky. The best is that after all the conversations we also started a friendship. Plan on meeting sometime for a beer and BBQ which I will be happy to pay for. 
Moral of the story.......don't judge a book by its cover. Everybody on Agon started with 0 feedback.

With a little effort one can learn a lot about a seller before being a buyer.

Research get name, phone, address Google search to verify info. This will also usually give you some info on the other party. I don't change equipment much so I've only done about 12 deals many in cash and so far so good.

@sfseay,
Everyone has to start somewhere.
Just because there is no prior feedback, doesn't mean the seller is dishonest.
If possible, try to get the sellers phone number and give them a call.

I, too, started with no feedback, but many Agoner's are very nice people, and will be very accommodating.

Like I said Audiogon is pretty stringent on protecting buyers, and contacting them with your questions is the best way to get the best answers.
I agree, using Paypal or a Credit Card will help to mitigate problems, should the occur. And, never ever wire moneys.
B

I would be cautious dealing with someone with zero feedback. Ask if they have feedback on eBay, USAudiomart or similar site. I would still be cautious, but using PayPal would mitigate a lot of risk provided the seller has a PayPal verified address and you have buyer protection when paying

Agon has some good policies for both buyers and sellers.
If you are suspicious of a seller, I would contact Tammy and provide her with the info., then go from there.
Bob