Private Transaction Tips

thunderdan

As I embarking upon a high value card (private) transaction, I would appreciate some insight from folks that have completed a private transaction (as either a buyer or seller) with a high value, graded card (i.e. person to person as opposed to ebay or the auctions). The goal is to make as clean a transaction as possible. Minimize my risk as much as possible and while timely providing agreed upon compensation to seller.

Here are some obvious ones. Are there others I'm missing that have helped you feel more secure in the transaction?

1) Meet in person (vs. waiting for it to be mailed)
2) Verify the PSA # on the holder
3) Check seller references/eBay feedback
4) Upon meeting, examine PSA holder to make sure it remains fully intact and sealed

Others might include meeting up at a trade show and having PSA verify the card. Getting written documentation from PSA that they have graded the card and stand behind the grade.

A related question is has anyone ever bought a PSA holdered high value card that somehow turned out to be fake (that PSA would then not stand behind)?

Thanks for your insights.

Wondo

Dan,

My favorite method is to get personal references that are familiar to me - many people on this or other boards will vouch or warn of individuals. Always insist upon a 72 hour or more return priviledge if buying and funds clearing if selling. I admit sensing an exaggerated paranoia from your post, but tht is not to belittle you for being cautious.


Another suggestion:

Pay with Paypal using a credit card

Hope this helps

John

WinPitcher

Can't add anything more John just about covered it.

Good luck!

Steve

envoy98

I'll chime in because I know what card you are referring to and the seller who is offering it to you. I can tell you that he is one of the most stand-up guys around. I haven't had the pleasure of seeing this card in person, but he does own it. You are welcome to contact me with any questions if you see fit. There is absolutely nothing to be worried about with the owner of this card. In fact, he is taking as big, if not a bigger risk than you are. I can say that because I know him and I know his character.

On the exchange note, I would think a bank transfer or escrow might be the best method, although for a card of this value, perhaps meeting in person for the exchange is the best bet. Then you don't have to worry about the USPS losing it or trying to get an insurance claim or anything else.

Shoot me a PM if you want any specific questions answered, I'm happy to give him a reference.

jimq112

When meeting in person it's a good idea to meet in a very public place and also to bring along a friend or 2, especially when carrying large amounts of cash. Not all people you may meet online are as honest and nice as they might act online.

WinPitcher

What card are we talking about here?


Steve

John91C

bring a good sized gun too...

Ahmanfan

Did ya find that '63 rose psa 9?

bigfische

If you feel uncomfortable dealing with someone new, you could ask them to set up a buy it now on ebay at an agreed-upon price and just have him tell you the minute it is listed. That would give you a little protection.

cohocorp

here is what i have done in the past. if paying via paypal, use a credit card. if paying in person in cash, go armed or with someone who is armed. if you cant, at least bring someone with you. i have done this a few times. there is strength in numbers. meet in a public place. you always can meet in front of a local police department. btw, dont go armed unless you are licensed to carry. if its a really large transaction, make sure the dealer is solid. i have sent steve hart (bbce) over $16,000 up front for a card before because i know him and trust him. there are very few dealers i would trust like that. if unsure, ask the members on here for references on the dealer. in you are the seller, be very careful. on high end item, i wont take paypal. on mid range items paid for via paypal, cover all your bases, i.e. sign confirmation, insurance etc. if meeting in person to sell, apply the same advice as above as buying. one option is to get the buyer to send you usps post office money orders since you can cash them at the post office before you ship the item.