Buyer Beware

[sphelps]

I think the title says it all, BUYER beware. You think you're the first to be disappointed with an internet sale? "Great Condition" is a matter of opinion, you should have obtained more information and pictures to justify your expectations prior to the sale. If it was in working condition and the owner didn't notice any of these issues (which is very likely the case) then his description may have been valid in his eyes.

I've had a fair share of disappointed purchases as well, recently over paid (IMO) for some items that were way smaller than expected but this my own fault and no different from your experience, I should have obtained more info and pictures but rather I quickly jumped on the chance of getting a "deal" as did you and therefore there are risks involved. People that take perfect care of there equipment do so to withhold the value, they won't likely then sell it for less than half retail.

We don't need a feedback system, this isn't ebay. The mods and director aren't here to protect you from bad purchases, that's not what the site is about. Take responsibly for your own actions, life is fall of risk and consequence.

[Reef Pilot]

I like to think Canreef is a small enough community, that people wouldn't dare try to take advantage, as their rep and name would be quickly tarnished if they did. I think it is good that shady deals and people are exposed, as in this thread. That goes for businesses as well. The seller always has a chance to defend themselves, if they feel they are wrongly accused, and people then can make up their own mind.

And I like it, too, when some sellers are questioned about their prices even by those that aren't buying, although I know the mods don't like it. But it keeps everyone honest, and helps protect the newbies.

Having said that, buyers should take whatever precautions they can with questions and pics, or better yet, buy locally and see the items yourself.

I belong to a couple small aviation forum communities as well, where a lot of used stuff gets bought and sold. And the regulars all look after each other. Any unscrupulous people are run off pretty quickly if they try anything shady.

This should not be like Craigslist or Kijiji. JHMO.