I've just had a thought that may need addressing. Recognized dealers command higher prices because (I suspect) the customer expects better service, maybe a better product and I suppose better product knowledge. Are we expecting too much from the one time seller and even the part time seller. I keep going back to what I know and/or experiences and I can honestly say I have sold some of my cars privately and know jack shit about cars. So someone buying my car, IMO is getting a fantastic car seeing I look after them, but look under the hood and it could (for all I know) be a piece of shit.
That's where I think the buyer needs to take a little responsibility because they are obviously bypassing the Dealers to get a cheaper price etc. So the buyer needs to insist and be more dillegent in getting all the information he/she requires to make that final decision (and IMO more so risk analysis). I can't see the seller providing any more information if he/she is somewhat inexperienced in the field. This however, does not excuse the seller who purposes misleads a buyer!!!
So I think we may need to formulate a "Sellers information sheet/checklist" that needs to be adequately completed before an item can be posted.
What do you reckon?
BTW I have primarily purchased from dealers except for a couple of times and there is a difference in product quality.
Excellent observation.
Important to note - Dealers (well some dealers) prepare machine to a standard which is recognised as the "bar". Some delears will do more, some are absolutely horrible (Rag in one hand, nifti in the other).
Private collectors who have imported containers have prepared machines BETTER than the "bar" set by dealers. This is because they have no overheads. 20 - 30 hours reconditioning a pinball is probably around the mark. So the opportunity to prepare machines to a higher standard presents itself to the private importer. It is an option. Conversely, the private importer can take the other road, and almost undercut the dealers.
Both senarios are presented to the private importer.
But the principle still stands - the standard between the "as is" and the "fully restored" is a very long piece of string. That can work to the buyer's advantage.
