Safest way to trade ?


Hi to all of you,

I just bought an ARC SP-11 mk II preamp here on the AudiogoN market place and i was wondering how i do have to proceed to be sure to not lose my money, let me explain.
My seller hasen't any feedback yet, the add was very minimalist, there was no photos, but he send them to me on request, the price is very cheap. Also, my greeck seller says he's a 71 years old and don't have the knowlegde and tools to open it and send me some picts of the inside of the preamp.
I am sure that most of you would have past their way after having reading the add, but i have the 'feeling' that this seller is telling the truth. Altought, the experience i have into buying audio products, tells me that i have to be caution and to find a way to insure my money. Paypal doesn't cover the risk if the product does not conform to the description, which is in fact my major problem. The preamp is supposed to have been serviced and retubed 2 years ago.
So what i am looking for is a 'middle man' service or something like that. A third party, that both of us would agree, and that will keep my money safe but also insure the seller that he'll get he's money once i'll have received the preamp and checked it.

If you have any idea, suggestion, or advice please let me know, thanks.
128x128audiofeel_
I would avoid this guy like the plague, he sounds like a big problem after the sale.
Onhwy61, I guess it depends on what you are selling. If I am selling an expensive item, especially tube equipment, I am willing to send it in for inspected. It helps the buyer know what he is buying and it relieves me of liability. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind. Besides, I'm not in it for the money, I'm in it for pleasure. It seems too many people have turned this into a business and this is where the troubles begin.
Audiofeel, ok, whatever. You just joined Audiogon this month so yes, your money is fake. You have not had time to conclude any transactions here since the maximum amont of time you have been a member is 10 days.

As far as how not to get burned, you already know. Dont buy sight unseen from sellers with zero feedback...especially when their entire economy has crumbled.....a recipe for failure. BUT, it would be kinda fun for all of us out here to lay odds on which one of you zero feedback, brand new members from other countries is the honest one.