The Layer Cake

It seems like there are 5 layers to the cake that make up eBay sellers.

Layer 1: Excellent Sellers/World Class = Solid Communication Skills, Consistently Offering Desirable Sought After Collectibles, Reputably Dependable & Knowledgeable Descriptions, Accurate Conservative Grading, Timely Delivery w/Strong Safe Packaging.

Layer 2: Above Average Sellers = Same as above but slightly looser grading, a mix of very collectible items and common place stuff, slight wavers in described accuracy or absence of information.

Layer 3: Average = Exact Hits & Occasional Misses in terms of grading, knowledgeability & dependable delivery times. Communication & Packaging are still above average. 80% of the time dealing with this type of seller yields satisfactory results. The averages are on the buyer's side.

Layer 4: Below Average = Inconsistent Grading, Packaging, descriptions & timely communication skills. Satisfactory dealings with this type of seller are 50/50. This seller normally has a few negatives but will try and take care of you if you have a problem. He gives partial or complete refunds.

Layer 5: Poor = Sellers w/Rude & Violent communications, Grading & Packaging from this seller can be a complete risk, just receiving what you have won is a risk, sellers provide either (a)false information in auction descriptions, or (b) intentionally does not include information such as warps or other obvious information the buyer should be aware of. Pictured items and descriptions are also often like east and west in relation to what you receive. Seller has a reputation for dissatisfaction and is extremely slow to provide communication, product or service.