Are Audio Dealers Missing the Boat?


I was wondering if dealers could be earing some $$$ acting as the middle-man in audio trades? The seller could bring the item to a participating dealer (listed on, say, Audiogon?) who would test it, grade it, verify its condition with the buyer and ship it for a fee?
I'd be willing to pay 10% for this service. The dealer could earn even more by allowing credit-card payment (sorry pay-pal).
128x128dweller

Showing 3 responses by dweller

Nothing is gained? I get nervous sending a total stranger, who may live on the other side of the continent, big bucks for something they "promise" to send me (have you ever asked a seller to send you the item first? Before you pay? -ain't gonna happen!) We can agree there is some paranoia in these transactions. Honest dealers (99%?) could really mellow things out IMO.
DedicatedAudio: A few questions... 1. Is this activity profitable for you? 2. Has it entwined you in any sticky legal consequences? 3. Have you heard of others doing this? 4. What are your ground rules?
Except for Saturdays, every dealer I've been to is ALWAYS empty which leads me to believe there is time to do this. The beauty of this idea is that sellers would have face-to-face contact with the friendly dealer to discuss product condition, etc. The escrow approach sounds more centralized (sending your merch to a faceless destination) i.e. removing the personal element.
Inna: Your comments remind me of my favorite (unspoken) remark to supermarket workers who butt in front of my cart, rude cashiers, etc. "Life would be much easier without those damned customers!".