I have had no problems buying or selling in the classifieds. I do the same thing every time I contemplate a transaction. I do a search for the person trying to do business with me. I read some of those posts. If the person seems to be legit I do some of the following:
1. I may ask others I trust if they have had dealings with the person.
2. I will exchange PMs.
3. I may ask to talk over the telephone.
When it comes to my end of the transaction, I often provide, in a PM or telephone call enough, personal information about myself to make the person comfortable that I wouldn't risk my reputation.
I like the 100-post rule.
I have only been involved in about 10 transactions, all in the past year. All have been better than perfect.
Unless I go on a selling spree I'll be far less active in the future on the classifieds than I've been in the past.
I keep an e-file of e-mails and PMs of everyone I've dealt with here. That way, if something ever happens to me my wife will know who to contact to liquidate my lefties.
I know we refrain from writing about the big Auction Site x-xxx. However, I've done about 60 transactions there over the years. I think their rating system is fantastic. I have a lot of trust in anyone with 100% positive feedback. I'm sure such a system is complicated but I'm a strong believer in past performance as a great predictor of future behavior.
By the way, if any of you come recommended by Billy Shipp in Texas...you are GOLDEN in my book!