Is seller negative feedback a deal-breaker ?

I wouldn't let it turn me away if it was a lone negative among many positives. I know that I personally had a bad experience as a seller here on Audiogon with a real psycho. Even though he was unreasonable and dishonest in our transaction, I just wanted to protect myself and my positive feedback, so I let him have his way. My point is that sometimes, a good seller will get a bum rap from a bad buyer, and vice versa.

Yes. I wouldn't buy from anyone with any negative feedback.

Sonic,

My philosophy is as follows. I generally deal with buyers who have a high feedback rating. They are usually regulars on Audiogon and are usually equipment horses that change horses quite often. Most have a few negative feedbacks,usually from a purchase in which they changed their mind or the shipper damaged the product. READ THE FEEDBACK!! make sure most of their transactions have been within the last year. Also get a physical address and a phone number and do a little research in the phone book. Most cheats will use false information.

YMMV,

Johnny

I'd agree that reading the comments will likely tell you a lot about the circumstances and the persons involved.

I also check the "response" feedback from the person who recieved the negative. Did they retaliate, try to explain, or simply leave none in return?

One member I came across had one negative among many positive feedback. He in turn left positive feedback, apologized and accepted full responsibility.

I'd buy from them, but they'd have to agree to send me the item I am purchasing and then I pay them when I get it. I have great extensive feedback that dates back 10 years and when I'm potentially dealing with a new member or someone with a negative I won't do it any other way. I've had money stolen from me on here and I won't take anymore chances.