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.      

128x128listenup23

Agree, if he’s a "well known individual " he makes money at this. No reason he should insist F&F .... I would pass

Agreed a well known individual sounds like a dealer or manufacturer also the 1099 thing is inaccurate that rule has been delayed yet again the threshold is still like $20K,

"Many do not use PP goods and services because if you recieve over $600/yr, paypal is required by law to send you, and the IRS, a 1099. that"

- This will not take effect for this years taxes. Implementation has been delayed. 

 The seller is responsible to deliver an item intact and if not, remunerate you

once you paid, the seller can ship, not ship, ship 2 broken pieces, ship with via a donkey, etc. S/he can: I shipped it, it worked, the rest is your problem. As it is then.

I've noticed many more sellers insisting on F&F, but I wouldn't say it's the new standard. Dunno if it's because of the tax issue or he's worried about buyer claims. Of course it allows the seller to be a little shady also.

If he wants to use F&F, power to him. You both have choices. However, if PP wants to be a D1ck, they can remove the F&F function from an account

Insurance seems to have gotten more and more expensive, but I would think he'd

at least give the buyer the option to pay for it. Heck, even getting a signature on delivery cost 6 bucks