Several days ago, I made an offer to buy from someone with no feedback. I told them I would only do the deal via UPS COD. Fortunately, I know our UPS guy and he will let me look at the item and even quickly power it up before handing over the funds. I never heard back from the seller. Either the item is sold (although it is not marked sold), they didn't like my COD terms, or they didn't like my offer, which was a little below the asking price. Either way, no problem. I will wait for a better opportunity. I think part of having good luck with these transactions is sticking to your terms, and knowing when to walk.
buyer beware of late
Did anyone else respond to the "unbeleavable" listings lately, like the B&W 800's for $3000 or the N802's for $3200...new members with no feedback. I received the message from Audiogon saying the members were "questionable" and not to do business with them. Same thing happened today with a listing for a Jadis integrated amp. I guess the only safe bet is to stay away if there's no feedback..but that doesn't do much for the legitiment new members trying to get established.