People who don't consider resale must have better access to dealers, or other audiophiles, where they can audition equipment and insure they are making the best buying decisions. In much of the country quality hi-fi dealers are few and far between and opportunities to audition are severely limited. In this scenario, buying/trying is the only option. Knowing you can resale for little/no loss is key to auditioning different equipment.
Unless you have deep pockets, and like to foolishly blow money on your hobby, considering resale is a must for many. Of course cigarette companies, Starbucks and movie theaters/studios depend on people foolishly blowing their money, so there must be a pretty big pool of free spenders out there....
This is just my opinion and I'm sticking with it.......
Enjoy the hobby, on whatever budget you've set aside.
Oh, and lastly, I've been buying and selling on AudiogoN since 1999/2000. I've yet to have a significantly negative buying/selling experience. Diligence in product research and proper product packaging is key. Also a good dose of skepticism doesn't hurt.