Over many years of buying used guitars and guitar amps, the biggest problem is people being sloppy or careless. Most people don't understand grading scales; most people don't know how to pack well. Very, very few people try to take your money and run. Usually it's minor annoyances.
Think about all the bad drivers who share the road with you. They're not evil; they just don't understand that it's a problem for others when they suddenly change lanes in front of you without signaling. We share ebay, audiogon and the Internet with the same people. In most bad transactions, I have been able to work out my problems with the seller. People are basically good and willing to do right, but then, people aren't perfect.
Protect yourself by looking at feedback and reputation over past transactions. Most problems I've encountered seem to be new sellers who haven't learned to take the care that a good seller needs to. I find that experienced sellers who have done many deals with a particular type item, whether stereo equipment or guitars, "get" condition grading and appreciate the details.
Think about all the bad drivers who share the road with you. They're not evil; they just don't understand that it's a problem for others when they suddenly change lanes in front of you without signaling. We share ebay, audiogon and the Internet with the same people. In most bad transactions, I have been able to work out my problems with the seller. People are basically good and willing to do right, but then, people aren't perfect.
Protect yourself by looking at feedback and reputation over past transactions. Most problems I've encountered seem to be new sellers who haven't learned to take the care that a good seller needs to. I find that experienced sellers who have done many deals with a particular type item, whether stereo equipment or guitars, "get" condition grading and appreciate the details.