I try to buy play-graded records (unless they are cheapies), and generally avoid sealed older ones (i'm not keep them sealed as collector's items, but playing them, and some sellers could force you to bear the risk on a sealed item). There are exceptions, but ultimately, it is caveat emptor, even if the seller is well-intended. Grading is subjective, despite 'standards.' And as you pointed out, you can have records that look fine and have been chewed up sonically, and others with faint hairlines that sound quiet and are fine, sonically.
I bought somewhere on the order of 1,000 records in 2013- virtually all used and many quite desirable 60's psych and rock and only got a few duds, which were, for the most part, the 'bargain' priced copies of what should have been more expensive records.
For expensive vintage records, I don't usually even bother looking for bargains- I'll pay the tariff rather than screw around trying to find a good playing copy cheap. There are certain well known vendors that charge a premium, but it is sometimes worth it;
But, I've also had the experience of buying some very collectible records at bargain prices, and those 'even out' the score.
I bought somewhere on the order of 1,000 records in 2013- virtually all used and many quite desirable 60's psych and rock and only got a few duds, which were, for the most part, the 'bargain' priced copies of what should have been more expensive records.
For expensive vintage records, I don't usually even bother looking for bargains- I'll pay the tariff rather than screw around trying to find a good playing copy cheap. There are certain well known vendors that charge a premium, but it is sometimes worth it;
But, I've also had the experience of buying some very collectible records at bargain prices, and those 'even out' the score.