Is there such thing as a test lab/escrow service for selling/buying audio gear?


I haven't had much luck selling used audio gear in the past. Sadly, it's not safe to invite a potential buyer into your home to test before buying, which excludes most of the popular local free listing services.  I have tried eBay but the fees are high and buyers can claim shipping damage if they want to return purchases. (I had a very expensive amp dropped on the ground to claim shipping damage by a buyer who tried to modify the amp to power 400 cycle equipment.) I have actually tried to list gear on this site but gave up trying to get a listing posted. It would be nice if I could sell items and then send them to an independent lab where condition could be confirmed. They could be sent on to the buyer from there. It would even be better if there were an escrow service tied to the process which would release funds to the seller on the labs approval. Any thoughts or does anyone know of such a service?

philliprcook

Any big bank or lawyer can function as an escrow agent with a specified technician to evaluate the piece on objective terms. Once the tech verifies, the funds would be released. Whether a seller would want to jump those hoops is another question even if you as buyer are paying the escrow fee and tech fee. I often had exotic cars subject to a pre-purchase inspection at my expense by a trusted mechanic--this is common in car world, probably not so much in audio. 

If you’re tired of doing it yourself TMR is the way to go in my experience too.  You don’t get top dollar but they are great to work with.  I like selling it myself.  It’s a way for an old sales guy to stay in the game.  I like buying used too.  I love doing business for fun.  It’s a fun part of the hobby for me.  

Another vote for TMR.  I have negotiated both price and their fee with them so there can be some flexibility. They have great customer support too. Sent them an amp to sell and during testing they found a problem.  We determined the unit was still under warranty and TMR sent it to the manufacturer for me to get repaired.  They also paid for shipping twice to get the amp back to sell after repair.  Although their fee is high, it does come with amazing support. I have sold and purchased many items with them. 

@philliprcook 

"I tried TMR but they quoted me a very low price and they have a standard consignment fee of 35%. In reality, I would only get about 35% of the value of the item if and when it sells."

FWIW, the "value of the item" is the amount it sells for on the open market.  You would get 65% of the value.

Another vote here for TMR, I have had nothing but good experiences with them.

Finally, it is not unheard of for sellers to send an expenisve item to the original manufacturer for a check-up and then most manufacturers will forward the item directly to the new buyer, assuming you pay them the shipping/insurance fee, which you can include in the price you collect from the buyer.  However, you must consider the logistics of timing and also expect to pay for the check-up, as nothing is free these days.  To maximize the amount you receive from your sale, and at the same time reduce (but not eliminate) your risk that a buyer will claim some sort of malfunction, this is a pretty good option.  However, you still have the risk of shipping damage. 

This site and USAM are two good places to sell audio gear.  If you need help navigating the listing process here, I am sure the A'gon administration will help you if you reach out.  For the least risk and hassle, use TMR and take your 65%.