Buying and Selling of feedback


Today I saw the second auction where the seller states something to this effect "if you don't come through with payment on a winning bid, you can give me $xx (or a percentage of the bid) and back out without negative feedback posted. otherwise, negative feedback will be posted.

This seems like extortion to me. Also, aren't the rest of us entitled to know about a deadbeat bidder (via negative feedback)? The posting of negative feedback is the correct recourse for a deadbeat bidder - not a bribe or "fine".

I think this behavior undermines the feedback process. What do the rest of you think?

Just curious.
dozer
According to Audiogons guide lines feed back can only be left when money exchanges hands. What about backing out on auctions? To follow the letter of the law the seller may not have the right to leave bad feedback.
SOS, it's certainly a professional stance that you take. Your attitute and courtesy should serve you well. You deserve to be successful.
I hadn't thought about this before. I think Dozer is right on. There is a "neutral" feed back. Perhaps this is the proper vehicle when a "negative" feed back may seem harsh due to extenuating circumstances. The use of the "neutral" feedback may keep track of persistent abusers with excuses.
I would like to also say, "Bravo!" to A Sanctuary Of Sound.

Members like this are one of the biggest reasons this is the best place to buy, sell, or just plain talk about our hobby.

Thank you for your graciousness, Sanctuary Of Sound!