I am one of the few people here that had an issue with Probstein. I no longer deal with him.
However, I don't see why anyone would have an objection to him buying as well as selling on ebay. He has every right to bid as high as he wants on any item he is interested in, for whatever reason.
There are WAY too many people complaining about other peoples bidding practices. Other than bid retractions, which I think should be limited, if not eliminated altogether.
If people would just bid what they feel comfortable with paying, ALL of these problems would be moot............Another one will come along.
Back when the bidders ID's were shown, I out bid someone at the last minute on an item I thought was worth a LOT more than I paid for it. The underbidder contacted me and said "If I would have known you were stupid enough to bid that high, I would have bid more".
Joe
2013,14 and 15 Certificate Award Winner Harmon Killebrew Master Set and Master Topps Set
cards that you actively look to purchase? ==> yes, I'm constantly buying....only for resale for profit...I don't collect , but I have a huge collection... I like many things
<< <i>cards that you actively look to purchase? ==> yes, I'm constantly buying....only for resale for profit...I don't collect , but I have a huge collection... I like many things >>
Many, if not most, Ebay sellers and consigners are always looking for inventory on ebay. Either they have list from clients or they know what their clientel is looking for and will buy. Or they may beleive they can turn the items around just by relisting them. Ebay is not their only source of buying, but it can be very profitable if they do their homework. Nothing wrong with this, but if you find yourself being outbid by a seller that you often buy from, and you have not given much thought to this matter before, it can be kind of a shock to the system! But I can assure you, Rick is by far, not the only seller that buys on ebay.
I have actually been in your boat a couple of times lately. I was outbid in the SportsCardLink auction, the winner listed it on ebay, and I thought about buying it from him. I didn't, but it was frustrating. I have nobody to blame but myself, I should have made a larger bid on SportsCardLink.
Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!
<< <i> Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection! >>
My friend,
You couldn't have said it any better. I appreciate the time you spent writing the post, a good post at that, and that line certainly summarizes my thoughts and feelings.
I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby.
<< <i> Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection! >>
My friend,
You couldn't have said it any better. I appreciate the time you spent writing the post, a good post at that, and that line certainly summarizes my thoughts and feelings.
I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby.
Thanks.
o.c.trading >>
No, if resellers are constantly outbidding you, then you are not bidding what the market dictates. You either need to lower your acceptable item quality (e.g. PSA 7 instead of PSA 8), or increase your budget. It has nothing to do with your choice of hobby.
It's not unusual at all for collectors to get outbid by dealers who then put the stuff in an ebay store or on a website for 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x+ the price.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough.
<< <i> I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby. >>
No, you probably should either bid higher or have more patience (what's the hurry?). You said, "If I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!" Again, why would you want to complete your collection? Keep on collecting!
I can't speak for others in this thread, but both this post and my first comment to you were not meant to be knocks against you or inflammatory. You may be missing the essence of our posts as well. I'm just trying to offer advice. Look at the bigger picture of simply enjoying your collection.
<< <i>It's not unusual at all for collectors to get outbid by dealers who then put the stuff in an ebay store or on a website for 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x+ the price.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough. >>
Generally speaking, I don't get outbid by dealers, and I'm comfortable with my bids. This was an exception.
If you want to run a successful business, you likely will not pay 100% to 200% FMV unless you have the item(s) sold beforehand or price inflation is completely out of control. I don't think the market is THAT strong now, but let me know what you think if you feel otherwise. It's one thing for collectors to pay retail prices, but wholesalers generally should have a price advantage.
<< <i>It's not unusual at all for collectors to get outbid by dealers who then put the stuff in an ebay store or on a website for 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x+ the price.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough. >>
Generally speaking, I don't get outbid by dealers, and I'm comfortable with my bids. This was an exception.
If you want to run a successful business, you likely will not pay 100% to 200% FMV unless you have the item(s) sold beforehand or price inflation is completely out of control. I don't think the market is THAT strong now, but let me know what you think if you feel otherwise. It's one thing for collectors to pay retail prices, but wholesalers generally should have a price advantage. >>
I think CW makes some very good points. Let's face it, if Rick is looking for things for clients, those clients have more money than time (which is why they are not on ebay themselves), so more than likely the items went for a premium THIS time. Patience grasshopper, and the next time around they may be yours. Personally, I never want to be the one who pays record price for an item, but I'm kind of cheap (what Chaz calls a "bottom feeder).
No, you probably should either bid higher or have more patience (what's the hurry?). You said, "If I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!" Again, why would you want to complete your collection? Keep on collecting!
I can't speak for others in this thread, but both this post and my first comment to you were not meant to be knocks against you or inflammatory. You may be missing the essence of our posts as well. I'm just trying to offer advice. Look at the bigger picture of simply enjoying your collection.
Good luck! >>
Actually, I didn't say that, but I agree with the general sentiment of the comment. We all have collecting goals, and we revise them accordingly with our life situations.
Words of encouragement were not perceived as knocks. As soon as the thread went Probstein, defense and offense came out. In so much as Rick has the right to make a purchase, I have a right to question it. I am not all-knowing. I had legitimate questions about his purchase so that I can revise my future expectations of prices and the market.
FWIW, SMR and FMV are two entirely different concepts.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
Junk dealers will buy whatever they can get cheap. These guys might stumble upon some decent stuff once in a while but usually it's undesirable material.
Dealers that consistently stock quality merchandise are absolutely paying strong prices. In most cases they are outbidding collectors in order to obtain it.
I think CW makes some very good points. Let's face it, if Rick is looking for things for clients, those clients have more money than time (which is why they are not on ebay themselves), so more than likely the items went for a premium THIS time. Patience grasshopper, and the next time around they may be yours. Personally, I never want to be the one who pays record price for an item, but I'm kind of cheap (what Chaz calls a "bottom feeder). >>
Rick's responses are more than adequate, and I appreciate his taking the time to respond (to the utmost). Once again, my concern involved Rick's place (or any other dealer's place, for that matter) in the transaction. Brokering a transaction at that price point makes sense. Buying for resale to make a profit in the future would be a questionable maneauvor, in my opinion. He is entitled to do that if he so pleases, but it makes me question the market. That's it. I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of, and my approach to collecting may be a little more thought out than some would want.
I have no problem waiting for the items to come back to the open market. Population reports tend to go up, not down. I have the patience, but I don't want to drive the market.
I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of
How were you taken advantage of in this situation?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i> I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of
How were you taken advantage of in this situation? >>
I wasn't, in this situation. I've bought many items from Rick. I'm speaking more so along the lines of the market in general, and that's my biggest concern. Maybe some of the folks have been confused by my comments, but artificial/inflated pricing would be my worst nightmare this time around in the collecting world. I already feel some kind of way about my grading experiences, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that respect. No, I'm not whining...I need to be comfortable in the market in which I operate. If indeed my transactions/bids are a major driving force in current price levels, I would definitely hesitate pushing prices up further. The items from the set I collect are available. With all the talk of shilling, etc, what are the chances I would get outbid by Rick? Dumb luck, really.
I believe that Rick has gone above and beyond in this thread because quite honestly he doesn't have to explain why he made a purchase to anyone. Just because he does a lot of consignments doesn't mean that he can't buy and sell on ebay just like anyone else.
<< <i>FWIW, SMR and FMV are two entirely different concepts. >>
I've had investments in used car businesses for years. It's funny how dealers can use whatever price resource benefits them the most. There's nothing wrong with that. A customer can always look for an alternative value that benefits him/her.
For my set of choice, average ebay bids for normal population commons generally come in under SMR. Not too many individuals will pony up for the low pop cards, and it was strange to see a dealer doing it @ FMV.
What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages.
'Sir, I realize it's been difficult for you to sleep at night without your EX/MT 1977 Topps Tom Seaver, but I swear to you that you'll get it safe and sound.' -CDs Nuts, 1/20/14
<< <i> I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of
How were you taken advantage of in this situation? >>
I wasn't, in this situation. I've bought many items from Rick. I'm speaking more so along the lines of the market in general, and that's my biggest concern. Maybe some of the folks have been confused by my comments, but artificial/inflated pricing would be my worst nightmare this time around in the collecting world. I already feel some kind of way about my grading experiences, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that respect. No, I'm not whining...I need to be comfortable in the market in which I operate. If indeed my transactions/bids are a major driving force in current price levels, I would definitely hesitate pushing prices up further. The items from the set I collect are available. With all the talk of shilling, etc, what are the chances I would get outbid by Rick? Dumb luck, really. >>
Not to sound like I'm picking on you, but it seems like you're talking out of both sides of your mouth.
Are you saying that you have better knowledge than most in the hobby and a clear view of what you're collecting? If you're saying either, your subsequent comments seem to contradict both premises. You obviously under estimated the value of the items such that you were outbid by someone who has someone else will to pay even more.
Are you suggesting that shilling has taken place? Or was that your concern initially? Were you seeing stories about apples and applying them to oranges?
Why does it matter who beat you? If another reseller outbid you and you didn't recognize the name, would you still feel the same?
It seems you are spending more time defending each statement that you make. Perhaps it is just time to chalk it up and figure out what it will take for you to be comfortable in the market in which you operate.
Personally, reading each successive post, I am getting the feeling that you're both ticked off that you got beat and that you're whining about it. But that is just my opinion and I may be completely off base.
<< <i>I believe that Rick has gone above and beyond in this thread because quite honestly he doesn't have to explain why he made a purchase to anyone. Just because he does a lot of consignments doesn't mean that he can't buy and sell on ebay just like anyone else. >>
Just because he does a lot of consignments, it makes sense to show customers respect and do good business. I appreciate the reply from Rick, and a little customer service can go a long way. Is there something wrong with transparency in this business? I don't think I committed a cardinal sin by posing a few questions to Rick. Rick answered them. Case closed.
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!?
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!? >>
Actually, I was just trying to be nice to all who care to comment. I'm happy the thread got some interest and reads, but my GOD!!!
What did we learn?
1. You can identify an ebay bidder after the fact, using the advanced tab.
2. Probstein snipes and actively purchases for customers.
and I think everyone agrees except for maybe one that Probstein should be able to buy away and snipe as he wishes on ebay..... he won a great PSA 8 Bronko Nagurski 1955 Parkhurst and it is fun for me to look at every now and then
BUYING Frank Gotch T229 Kopec Looking to BUY n332 1889 SF Hess cards and high grade cards from 19th century especially. "Once you have wrestled everything else in life is easy" Dan Gable
This passive-aggressive thing is quite impressive, LOL!
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>and I think everyone agrees except for maybe one that Probstein should be able to buy away and snipe as he wishes on ebay..... he won a great PSA 8 Bronko Nagurski 1955 Parkhurst and it is fun for me to look at every now and then >>
Wow, so we've established that Probstein is allowed to buy cards on eBay? That's ok with everyone here?
The Clockwork Angel Collection...brought to you by Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase TheClockworkAngelCollection
What happens when cards your clients need are consigned to you for auction? When other sellers list them it's no problem, you simply place maximum bids on behalf of your client and hope to win them. But what happens if somebody gave you cards like Surkont and Pesky to auction off. Do you tell your client who doesn't have time to bid about them? If your client can't bid do they just go cheap to a guy like OcT at well below what you would have paid had they been listed elsewhere.
But what happens if somebody gave you cards like Surkont and Pesky to auction off ==> good question....in this case, I wouldn't have noticed....the buyer would be on his on finding items he needs... if I did notice, I'd pop him an email...I do this from time to time... I have a 52 topps psa 9 pop 2 up now and I sent out 4 emails to potential buyers on the card....
I buy mostly large lots or super high end items, very rarely am I buying 52 bowmans....there are some buyers that are too busy to look for cards on ebay or other auction houses , but they will buy cards they want if they are presented them....basically, we don't do much brokering...JP with memory lane is the King of doing this...I'm too busy to get super involved with brokering...
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!? >>
I'll take alt for a $1000 alex. Alex=Which former member is octrading portraying?? GORAIDERS-Well Alex I would say without a doubt we are dealing with @*!&, Alex-Correct you are,and how did you know that sir?? GORAIDERS-Long winded replys,alot of words but really no response,I'm sure others will figure it out as well.
<< <i>and I think everyone agrees except for maybe one that Probstein should be able to buy away and snipe as he wishes on ebay..... he won a great PSA 8 Bronko Nagurski 1955 Parkhurst and it is fun for me to look at every now and then >>
Wow, so we've established that Probstein is allowed to buy cards on eBay? That's ok with everyone here?
>>
Yes, he's allowed- but only if it's something that OP doesn't want. Otherwise OP will start threads about shilling, demand an explanation as to why the bidder dared to outbid him, demand to know what he's doing with the cards... etc.
This has been a surreal thread. Almost as if it's been kept alive in hopes of somehow finding a way to indict Probstein for.........wait for it........wait for it........bidding on a couple of cards. I think it's time to retire the Scooby-Dum magnifying glass.
Comments
However, I don't see why anyone would have an objection to him buying as well as selling on ebay. He has every right to bid as high as he wants on any item he is interested in, for whatever reason.
There are WAY too many people complaining about other peoples bidding practices. Other than bid retractions, which I think should be limited, if not eliminated altogether.
If people would just bid what they feel comfortable with paying, ALL of these problems would be moot............Another one will come along.
Back when the bidders ID's were shown, I out bid someone at the last minute on an item I thought was worth a LOT more than I paid for it. The underbidder contacted me and said "If I would have known you were stupid enough to bid that high, I would have bid more".
Joe
<< <i>OP that means the price is even higher.
==> correct, they went off low >>
Thank you so much for the response, RICK. I was just hoping for an answer from YOU. No hard feelings on my end, and I mean that.
Any specifics as to how rare you feel the cards actually are??? Obviously, there is a premium associated with the cards.
And, Rick, does that mean that you have a list of cards from clients, cards that you actively look to purchase?
o.c.trading
==> yes, I'm constantly buying....only for resale for profit...I don't collect , but I have a huge collection...
I like many things
Ebay Store:
Probstein123
phone: 973 747 6304
email: rickprobstein1@gmail.com
Probstein123 is actively accepting CONSIGNMENTS !!
<< <i>cards that you actively look to purchase?
==> yes, I'm constantly buying....only for resale for profit...I don't collect , but I have a huge collection...
I like many things >>
Again, that helps clear things up.
Thank you.
o.c.trading
I think this may help:
Many, if not most, Ebay sellers and consigners are always looking for inventory on ebay. Either they have list from clients or they know what their clientel is looking for and will buy. Or they may beleive they can turn the items around just by relisting them. Ebay is not their only source of buying, but it can be very profitable if they do their homework. Nothing wrong with this, but if you find yourself being outbid by a seller that you often buy from, and you have not given much thought to this matter before, it can be kind of a shock to the system!
But I can assure you, Rick is by far, not the only seller that buys on ebay.
I have actually been in your boat a couple of times lately. I was outbid in the SportsCardLink auction, the winner listed it on ebay, and I thought about buying it from him. I didn't, but it was frustrating. I have nobody to blame but myself, I should have made a larger bid on SportsCardLink.
Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!
<< <i>
Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection! >>
My friend,
You couldn't have said it any better. I appreciate the time you spent writing the post, a good post at that, and that line certainly summarizes my thoughts and feelings.
I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby.
Thanks.
o.c.trading
<< <i>
<< <i>
Another thought, as a collector, if I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection! >>
My friend,
You couldn't have said it any better. I appreciate the time you spent writing the post, a good post at that, and that line certainly summarizes my thoughts and feelings.
I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby.
Thanks.
o.c.trading >>
No, if resellers are constantly outbidding you, then you are not bidding what the market dictates. You either need to lower your acceptable item quality (e.g. PSA 7 instead of PSA 8), or increase your budget. It has nothing to do with your choice of hobby.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough.
<< <i>
I think most folks missed the essence of the post in so much as it was never meant to be a complaint directed towards Probstein or whining on my behalf. If it gets to the point where resellers are constantly outbidding you for items you collect, you probably should find another hobby.
>>
No, you probably should either bid higher or have more patience (what's the hurry?). You said, "If I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!" Again, why would you want to complete your collection? Keep on collecting!
I can't speak for others in this thread, but both this post and my first comment to you were not meant to be knocks against you or inflammatory. You may be missing the essence of our posts as well. I'm just trying to offer advice. Look at the bigger picture of simply enjoying your collection.
Good luck!
<< <i>It's not unusual at all for collectors to get outbid by dealers who then put the stuff in an ebay store or on a website for 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x+ the price.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough. >>
Generally speaking, I don't get outbid by dealers, and I'm comfortable with my bids. This was an exception.
If you want to run a successful business, you likely will not pay 100% to 200% FMV unless you have the item(s) sold beforehand or price inflation is completely out of control. I don't think the market is THAT strong now, but let me know what you think if you feel otherwise. It's one thing for collectors to pay retail prices, but wholesalers generally should have a price advantage.
<< <i>
<< <i>It's not unusual at all for collectors to get outbid by dealers who then put the stuff in an ebay store or on a website for 1.5x, 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x+ the price.
detroitfan2 hit the nail on the head. If you're getting outbid by dealers, you're not bidding high enough. >>
Generally speaking, I don't get outbid by dealers, and I'm comfortable with my bids. This was an exception.
If you want to run a successful business, you likely will not pay 100% to 200% FMV unless you have the item(s) sold beforehand or price inflation is completely out of control. I don't think the market is THAT strong now, but let me know what you think if you feel otherwise. It's one thing for collectors to pay retail prices, but wholesalers generally should have a price advantage. >>
I think CW makes some very good points. Let's face it, if Rick is looking for things for clients, those clients have more money than time (which is why they are not on ebay themselves), so more than likely the items went for a premium THIS time. Patience grasshopper, and the next time around they may be yours. Personally, I never want to be the one who pays record price for an item, but I'm kind of cheap (what Chaz calls a "bottom feeder).
<< <i>
No, you probably should either bid higher or have more patience (what's the hurry?). You said, "If I can not outbid a reseller, it's going to take me an awful long time to complete my collection!" Again, why would you want to complete your collection? Keep on collecting!
I can't speak for others in this thread, but both this post and my first comment to you were not meant to be knocks against you or inflammatory. You may be missing the essence of our posts as well. I'm just trying to offer advice. Look at the bigger picture of simply enjoying your collection.
Good luck! >>
Actually, I didn't say that, but I agree with the general sentiment of the comment. We all have collecting goals, and we revise them accordingly with our life situations.
Words of encouragement were not perceived as knocks. As soon as the thread went Probstein, defense and offense came out. In so much as Rick has the right to make a purchase, I have a right to question it. I am not all-knowing. I had legitimate questions about his purchase so that I can revise my future expectations of prices and the market.
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
Dealers that consistently stock quality merchandise are absolutely paying strong prices. In most cases they are outbidding collectors in order to obtain it.
<< <i>
I think CW makes some very good points. Let's face it, if Rick is looking for things for clients, those clients have more money than time (which is why they are not on ebay themselves), so more than likely the items went for a premium THIS time. Patience grasshopper, and the next time around they may be yours. Personally, I never want to be the one who pays record price for an item, but I'm kind of cheap (what Chaz calls a "bottom feeder). >>
Rick's responses are more than adequate, and I appreciate his taking the time to respond (to the utmost). Once again, my concern involved Rick's place (or any other dealer's place, for that matter) in the transaction. Brokering a transaction at that price point makes sense. Buying for resale to make a profit in the future would be a questionable maneauvor, in my opinion. He is entitled to do that if he so pleases, but it makes me question the market. That's it. I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of, and my approach to collecting may be a little more thought out than some would want.
I have no problem waiting for the items to come back to the open market. Population reports tend to go up, not down. I have the patience, but I don't want to drive the market.
How were you taken advantage of in this situation?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i> I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of
How were you taken advantage of in this situation? >>
I wasn't, in this situation. I've bought many items from Rick. I'm speaking more so along the lines of the market in general, and that's my biggest concern. Maybe some of the folks have been confused by my comments, but artificial/inflated pricing would be my worst nightmare this time around in the collecting world. I already feel some kind of way about my grading experiences, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that respect. No, I'm not whining...I need to be comfortable in the market in which I operate. If indeed my transactions/bids are a major driving force in current price levels, I would definitely hesitate pushing prices up further. The items from the set I collect are available. With all the talk of shilling, etc, what are the chances I would get outbid by Rick? Dumb luck, really.
<< <i>FWIW, SMR and FMV are two entirely different concepts. >>
I've had investments in used car businesses for years. It's funny how dealers can use whatever price resource benefits them the most. There's nothing wrong with that. A customer can always look for an alternative value that benefits him/her.
For my set of choice, average ebay bids for normal population commons generally come in under SMR. Not too many individuals will pony up for the low pop cards, and it was strange to see a dealer doing it @ FMV.
-CDs Nuts, 1/20/14
*1956 Topps baseball- 97.4% complete, 7.24 GPA
*Clemente basic set: 85.0% complete, 7.89 GPA
<< <i>
<< <i> I spend far too much money to be taken advantage of
How were you taken advantage of in this situation? >>
I wasn't, in this situation. I've bought many items from Rick. I'm speaking more so along the lines of the market in general, and that's my biggest concern. Maybe some of the folks have been confused by my comments, but artificial/inflated pricing would be my worst nightmare this time around in the collecting world. I already feel some kind of way about my grading experiences, and I'm sure I'm not alone in that respect. No, I'm not whining...I need to be comfortable in the market in which I operate. If indeed my transactions/bids are a major driving force in current price levels, I would definitely hesitate pushing prices up further. The items from the set I collect are available. With all the talk of shilling, etc, what are the chances I would get outbid by Rick? Dumb luck, really. >>
Not to sound like I'm picking on you, but it seems like you're talking out of both sides of your mouth.
Are you saying that you have better knowledge than most in the hobby and a clear view of what you're collecting? If you're saying either, your subsequent comments seem to contradict both premises. You obviously under estimated the value of the items such that you were outbid by someone who has someone else will to pay even more.
Are you suggesting that shilling has taken place? Or was that your concern initially? Were you seeing stories about apples and applying them to oranges?
Why does it matter who beat you? If another reseller outbid you and you didn't recognize the name, would you still feel the same?
It seems you are spending more time defending each statement that you make. Perhaps it is just time to chalk it up and figure out what it will take for you to be comfortable in the market in which you operate.
Personally, reading each successive post, I am getting the feeling that you're both ticked off that you got beat and that you're whining about it. But that is just my opinion and I may be completely off base.
<< <i>I believe that Rick has gone above and beyond in this thread because quite honestly he doesn't have to explain why he made a purchase to anyone. Just because he does a lot of consignments doesn't mean that he can't buy and sell on ebay just like anyone else. >>
Just because he does a lot of consignments, it makes sense to show customers respect and do good business. I appreciate the reply from Rick, and a little customer service can go a long way. Is there something wrong with transparency in this business? I don't think I committed a cardinal sin by posing a few questions to Rick. Rick answered them. Case closed.
I think OTW hit the nail on the head.
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok???
lock this up tight...
Looking for 1970 MLB Photostamps
- uncut
Positive Transactions - tennesseebanker, Ahmanfan, Donruss, Colebear, CDsNuts, rbdjr1, Downtown1974, yankeeno7, drewsef, mnolan, mrbud60, msassin, RipublicaninMass, AkbarClone, rustywilly, lsutigers1973, julen23 and nam812, plus many others...
<< <i>
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!?
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!? >>
Actually, I was just trying to be nice to all who care to comment. I'm happy the thread got some interest and reads, but my GOD!!!
What did we learn?
1. You can identify an ebay bidder after the fact, using the advanced tab.
2. Probstein snipes and actively purchases for customers.
Good night.
Looking to BUY n332 1889 SF Hess cards and high grade cards from 19th century especially. "Once you have wrestled everything else in life is easy" Dan Gable
<< <i>Just because he does a lot of consignments, it makes sense to show customers respect and do good business. >>
What does this mean? Do you think probstein disrespected you by going after these cards because you think he knew you needed them?
Collecting 1970s Topps baseball wax, rack and cello packs, as well as PCGS graded Half Cents, Large Cents, Two Cent pieces and Three Cent Silver pieces.
<< <i>and I think everyone agrees except for maybe one that Probstein should be able to buy away and snipe as he wishes on ebay..... he won a great PSA 8 Bronko Nagurski 1955 Parkhurst and it is fun for me to look at every now and then
Wow, so we've established that Probstein is allowed to buy cards on eBay? That's ok with everyone here?
TheClockworkAngelCollection
<< <i>You should have bid him up to his maximum. >>
what Bill said
Dodgers collection scans | Brett Butler registry | 1978 Dodgers - straight 9s, homie
<< <i>
<< <i>You should have bid him up to his maximum. >>
what Bill said >>
Who's Bill?
Needs'
1972 Football-9's high#'s
1965 Football-8's
1958 Topps FB-7-8
==>
Ebay Store:
Probstein123
phone: 973 747 6304
email: rickprobstein1@gmail.com
Probstein123 is actively accepting CONSIGNMENTS !!
new thread to follow.
==> good idea
Ebay Store:
Probstein123
phone: 973 747 6304
email: rickprobstein1@gmail.com
Probstein123 is actively accepting CONSIGNMENTS !!
==> good question....in this case, I wouldn't have noticed....the buyer would be on his on finding items he needs...
if I did notice, I'd pop him an email...I do this from time to time...
I have a 52 topps psa 9 pop 2 up now and I sent out 4 emails to potential buyers on the card....
I emailed this out to know set registry buyers
I buy mostly large lots or super high end items, very rarely am I buying 52 bowmans....there are some buyers that are too busy to look for cards on ebay or other auction houses ,
but they will buy cards they want if they
are presented them....basically, we don't do much brokering...JP with memory lane is the King of doing this...I'm too busy to get super involved with brokering...
Ebay Store:
Probstein123
phone: 973 747 6304
email: rickprobstein1@gmail.com
Probstein123 is actively accepting CONSIGNMENTS !!
<< <i>
<< <i>
<< <i>What a bizarre thread. No discussion that's actually going anywhere, no one really fighting with each other..... yet still four pages. >>
+ 1. From the OP.
I never locked a thread, but I will try. Is that ok??? >>
You sound like an alt to me. Nobody could display such severe OCD and be real. You are just an alt playing it up. Right!? Nobody really dwells that much about getting outbid on a couple of cards do they!? >>
I'll take alt for a $1000 alex.
Alex=Which former member is octrading portraying??
GORAIDERS-Well Alex I would say without a doubt we are dealing with @*!&,
Alex-Correct you are,and how did you know that sir??
GORAIDERS-Long winded replys,alot of words but really no response,I'm sure others will figure it out as well.
Needs'
1972 Football-9's high#'s
1965 Football-8's
1958 Topps FB-7-8
<< <i>
<< <i>and I think everyone agrees except for maybe one that Probstein should be able to buy away and snipe as he wishes on ebay..... he won a great PSA 8 Bronko Nagurski 1955 Parkhurst and it is fun for me to look at every now and then
Wow, so we've established that Probstein is allowed to buy cards on eBay? That's ok with everyone here?
Yes, he's allowed- but only if it's something that OP doesn't want. Otherwise OP will start threads about shilling, demand an explanation as to why the bidder dared to outbid him, demand to know what he's doing with the cards... etc.
RIP Mom- 1932-2012
you'll never be able to outrun a bad diet