Donate To Keep The Site Ad Free
+ Reply to Thread
Page 18 of 20 FirstFirst ... 8 16 17 18 19 20 LastLast
Results 426 to 450 of 485

Thread: Buying things specifically to sell for a profit.

  1. #426
    Live it. webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000's Avatar

    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Halifax, Nova Scotia
    Posts
    18,463
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    I agree that it is a gray area though. LOL and im not trying to make a blanket statement about anyone who sells something and turns a profit. There is plenty of opportunity to mask your motivation and hide behind anonymous selling platforms like ebay.

    I just try and support Sellers that have a passion for collecting and love the items/Art/Stories in a similar way that I do
    I really like dealing with people that love it like me. David for sure. Ralph... class act and good friend. I liked how you put it into perspective with that statement. I'm with ya.... when I see IT paperbacks that some guy cornered King and got a sig on it and has it on eBay for $750... those are the ones I detest.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    HELP ME FIND
    Insomnia #459
    ANY S/L #459

  2. #427
    Two Gunslingers Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis's Avatar

    Join Date
    Dec 2012
    Location
    Orlando, FL
    Posts
    2,074
    My Mood
    Psychedelic
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Gee, it's probably a good thing that my kneejerk/emotional reaction comment wasn't:

    *sees that the IT's sold out in two minutes to potential Flippers*


    "Man, I fucking hate rich people!"
    Wanted
    CD Carrie Portfolio 719
    Dark Tower S/N LE's 171 or 203
    ANY Stephen King S/N LE #171 or 719

    A Storm of Swords #218 or 346
    Ancillary Justice #455
    American Gods (+ SC Reader copy) #624

    Michael Whelan original art
    DT VII: Michael Whelan Remarque

  3. #428
    Two Gunslingers Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis's Avatar

    Join Date
    Dec 2012
    Location
    Orlando, FL
    Posts
    2,074
    My Mood
    Psychedelic
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    maybe i should go back and edit all my posts and replace the word "flipper" with

    LOL
    Wanted
    CD Carrie Portfolio 719
    Dark Tower S/N LE's 171 or 203
    ANY Stephen King S/N LE #171 or 719

    A Storm of Swords #218 or 346
    Ancillary Justice #455
    American Gods (+ SC Reader copy) #624

    Michael Whelan original art
    DT VII: Michael Whelan Remarque

  4. #429
    Live it. webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000's Avatar

    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Halifax, Nova Scotia
    Posts
    18,463
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    maybe i should go back and edit all my posts and replace the word "flipper" with

    LOL
    Lol


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    HELP ME FIND
    Insomnia #459
    ANY S/L #459

  5. #430
    Rabid Billybumbler Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook's Avatar

    Join Date
    Mar 2011
    Location
    Great Northwest
    Posts
    2,964
    My Mood
    Busy
    Country
    Country Flag

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    i hate flippers
    In your view, at what point or how long does an individual have to own or hold onto a book before it is no longer considered flipping.
    I'm not sure if it is a time thing. It is a motivation thing. As i've stated before, if they are just making the purchase for the love of money or profit and the opportunity to make money off of a collector, I do not like those people.

    I get what you're saying sort-of.. but I guess I don't understand how a person (who collects King) and who also sell books for a profit is any different than say a business like David's (no offense David)
    I love King just as much as the next guy, and yes I do sell books for profit, but to suggest that a business that sells books for profit is better?
    I give to charities as well, so does that raise me a notch.
    I've been collecting books for about 30 years now, I have a decent collection as well, mostly from reselling (with a profit) to pay for additional purchases.
    So seriously & honestly, based on what I've just stated how would you rate me? Don't worry, it's near impossible to offend me.


    “The battle between good and evil is endlessly fascinating because we are participants every day.” - Stephen King

  6. #431
    Can Toi St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy's Avatar

    Join Date
    Apr 2016
    Location
    ...parts unknown...
    Posts
    5,295
    My Mood
    Yeehaw
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    "Flipper" is only a pejorative if you burden it with negatives about motivation you happen not to like.

    The notion that money is a bad motivation is either laughably naive or laughably socialist, but that's a wider conversation I lack the energy to pursue today.

    Have you considered that any specialty book store like Betts (not some random guy at home who happens to have a special edition on the shelf, but an actual business) is in it for the money? Otherwise, how does such a business exist? And before you start in with the whole "No! David is a great guy!" stuff, I'm not saying he's not a great guy, because I'm not the one saying money is somehow an evil motivation (I'm wise enough to know it isn't).

    When you resent someone who prevents you from making a desired purchase by swooping in on an auction merely to immediately resell it for a profit, your resentment isn't born of your altruistic, noble notions of fairness, it's born of your self-interest. And guess what? The other guy has self-interest too; that's why he's trying to make a few bucks when he thinks he can.

    It's worth pointing out that all resellers (the Betts types and the swoopers) help in the long run by making the secondary collectible book market a more liquid place by serving as willing, aggressive buyers for sellers like Betts (who we all want to stay in business, right?) and serving as sellers for prospective buyers like us (if you want a lettered It or Eyes of the Dragon and they're only owned by people who would keep it until they die like I would, then there's none for you to buy).

    The marketplace is an ecosystem. The only selfishness is fraud. Lies, misrepresentation and misinformation are the only things worth worrying about. Stop worrying about how other people spend their money - it may piss you off, but in the end it isn't even any of your business.
    It seems I'm miles above the surface of the Earth

    I can see across the whole of London and beyond

  7. #432
    Great Old One zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig seldom gets put on hold zelig's Avatar

    Join Date
    Apr 2014
    Posts
    8,413
    My Mood
    Inspired
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    I feel kinda strongly about this discussion. I agree with what Lookwhoitis is saying. Whether the word "flipper" is misplaced here or not isn't really important. What is relevant is the underlying point of it all. I have no problem with people making a fair profit selling books, whether it's David or an individual collector. My problem is with price gouging. How many times have we seen someone selling an item for some ridiculous price that may have very little to do with the production value or scarcity of the book, and more to do with the the seller taking advantage of the buyer by making a grossly unreasonable profit.

    Sure, nothing wrong with making a profit.... but my personal opinion is that there should be a line in the sand. Who really wins in a deal like this? It's a one-sided transaction. The seller made off like a bandit, and the buyer just got screwed. That's what I have an issue with. The seller could care less about the book, or the buyer's experience, and all that matters is making a massive profit.

  8. #433
    Owner Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg is loved more than Jesus Randall Flagg's Avatar

    Join Date
    May 2007
    Location
    North of "The Claw" & Patrick, East of Chad, RIP Bill Bender
    Posts
    40,428
    My Mood
    Pensive
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    In order to not commandeer Betts thread, I've moved recent posts here.

  9. #434
    Live it. webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000's Avatar

    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Halifax, Nova Scotia
    Posts
    18,463
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Love this discussion though. I agree with so many points!


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    HELP ME FIND
    Insomnia #459
    ANY S/L #459

  10. #435
    Two Gunslingers Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis has much to be proud of Lookwhoitis's Avatar

    Join Date
    Dec 2012
    Location
    Orlando, FL
    Posts
    2,074
    My Mood
    Psychedelic
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    i hate flippers
    In your view, at what point or how long does an individual have to own or hold onto a book before it is no longer considered flipping.
    I'm not sure if it is a time thing. It is a motivation thing. As i've stated before, if they are just making the purchase for the love of money or profit and the opportunity to make money off of a collector, I do not like those people.

    I get what you're saying sort-of.. but I guess I don't understand how a person (who collects King) and who also sell books for a profit is any different than say a business like David's (no offense David)
    I love King just as much as the next guy, and yes I do sell books for profit, but to suggest that a business that sells books for profit is better?
    I give to charities as well, so does that raise me a notch.
    I've been collecting books for about 30 years now, I have a decent collection as well, mostly from reselling (with a profit) to pay for additional purchases.
    So seriously & honestly, based on what I've just stated how would you rate me? Don't worry, it's near impossible to offend me.
    I dont think you are a perjorative Flipper. Because you are a longtime collector with a big collection. Making money from selling the items you have amassed over the years to fund more buying is smart, not unethical.
    Wanted
    CD Carrie Portfolio 719
    Dark Tower S/N LE's 171 or 203
    ANY Stephen King S/N LE #171 or 719

    A Storm of Swords #218 or 346
    Ancillary Justice #455
    American Gods (+ SC Reader copy) #624

    Michael Whelan original art
    DT VII: Michael Whelan Remarque

  11. #436
    Rabid Billybumbler Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook has a reputation beyond repute Cook's Avatar

    Join Date
    Mar 2011
    Location
    Great Northwest
    Posts
    2,964
    My Mood
    Busy
    Country
    Country Flag

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    i hate flippers
    In your view, at what point or how long does an individual have to own or hold onto a book before it is no longer considered flipping.
    I'm not sure if it is a time thing. It is a motivation thing. As i've stated before, if they are just making the purchase for the love of money or profit and the opportunity to make money off of a collector, I do not like those people.

    I get what you're saying sort-of.. but I guess I don't understand how a person (who collects King) and who also sell books for a profit is any different than say a business like David's (no offense David)
    I love King just as much as the next guy, and yes I do sell books for profit, but to suggest that a business that sells books for profit is better?
    I give to charities as well, so does that raise me a notch.
    I've been collecting books for about 30 years now, I have a decent collection as well, mostly from reselling (with a profit) to pay for additional purchases.
    So seriously & honestly, based on what I've just stated how would you rate me? Don't worry, it's near impossible to offend me.
    I dont think you are a perjorative Flipper. Because you are a longtime collector with a big collection. Making money from selling the items you have amassed over the years to fund more buying is smart, not unethical.
    But wait... there's more !!
    So if I were to go to one of the upcoming "Sleeping Beauties" events and bring lets say 3 or 4 additional folks with me for the sole purpose of increasing my odds.
    Is that wrong? if so why? (lets keep this conversation totally friendly)


    “The battle between good and evil is endlessly fascinating because we are participants every day.” - Stephen King

  12. #437
    Can Toi St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy has a brilliant future St. Troy's Avatar

    Join Date
    Apr 2016
    Location
    ...parts unknown...
    Posts
    5,295
    My Mood
    Yeehaw
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by zelig View Post
    My problem is with price gouging. How many times have we seen someone selling an item for some ridiculous price that may have very little to do with the production value or scarcity of the book...
    If we were talking about plywood at a hardware store in Florida 3 days before a hurricane made landfall, this would merit concern, but we're talking about people pursuing a hobby.

    Quote Originally Posted by zelig View Post
    ...there should be a line in the sand...
    Each party has a chance to do just that - the seller doesn't go any lower than he wants, the buyer doesn't go any higher than he wants. The occurrence of a sale indicates the presence of an agreement, not a disagreement.

    Quote Originally Posted by zelig View Post
    ...the buyer just got screwed.
    The buyer, by virtue of having freely chosen to buy, by definition was most certainly not screwed. NEVER pity someone for how they choose to spend their disposable income.

    Quote Originally Posted by zelig View Post
    The seller could care less about the book, or the buyer's experience, and all that matters is making a massive profit.
    Upon completion of the transaction, the seller is only left with the money - why would a seller not focus on that? (The book and buyer experience mattering to the seller only to the extent to which they impact the profit). When you buy a book, do you not focus on the book once you have it, as you should?
    It seems I'm miles above the surface of the Earth

    I can see across the whole of London and beyond

  13. #438
    President-Matt Fisher Fan Club Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute Roseannebarr has a reputation beyond repute

    Join Date
    May 2011
    Posts
    2,972
    My Mood
    Asleep

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Cook View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    i hate flippers
    In your view, at what point or how long does an individual have to own or hold onto a book before it is no longer considered flipping.
    I'm not sure if it is a time thing. It is a motivation thing. As i've stated before, if they are just making the purchase for the love of money or profit and the opportunity to make money off of a collector, I do not like those people.

    I get what you're saying sort-of.. but I guess I don't understand how a person (who collects King) and who also sell books for a profit is any different than say a business like David's (no offense David)
    I love King just as much as the next guy, and yes I do sell books for profit, but to suggest that a business that sells books for profit is better?
    I give to charities as well, so does that raise me a notch.
    I've been collecting books for about 30 years now, I have a decent collection as well, mostly from reselling (with a profit) to pay for additional purchases.
    So seriously & honestly, based on what I've just stated how would you rate me? Don't worry, it's near impossible to offend me.
    I dont think you are a perjorative Flipper. Because you are a longtime collector with a big collection. Making money from selling the items you have amassed over the years to fund more buying is smart, not unethical.
    But wait... there's more !!
    So if I were to go to one of the upcoming "Sleeping Beauties" events and bring lets say 3 or 4 additional folks with me for the sole purpose of increasing my odds.
    Is that wrong? if so why? (lets keep this conversation totally friendly)

    Nothing wrong with that! I bring my family with the sole purpose of trying to secure a signed book. After I secure the signed book, I make sure others in attendance (from this site or friendly neighbors in line) were taken care of, then I go straight to David (Betts Books) and trade my extra's for missing pieces of my collection. I always say I have a poor mans collection. More than 60% of my signed books were done in person - as opposed to paying market rate from ebay/betts, etc.... The other signed limiteds got from David with trade. I could not have collected what I have just buying out right and it would not have been nearly as fun.

  14. #439
    Maerlyn's Imp tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4's Avatar

    Join Date
    May 2007
    Location
    Southern California
    Posts
    5,002
    My Mood
    Hot
    Country
    Country Flag

    Default

    Hi everybody, my name is Rick, and I am a flipper.

    I work hard at it, and am able to afford my King collection as a result.

    If I had a dollar for every person that thanked me for selling them a book....well, let's just say I would have an even bigger King collection.

    I have never held a gun to anyone's head and forced them to buy from me, nor have I ever sold anything like food or medication that would sustain a person's life. The items I flip (mostly King books) are non nonessential or frivolous items, that nobody truly needs.

    Whether I was doing it to afford my King collection, put food on the table, or buy my third yacht should not be anyone's concern.

    I'm a flipper, and I am proud of it.
    FOR SALE OR TRADE

    Dark Tower 7 Artist Edition n/a
    The Waste Lands 1st Edition in Shrinkwrap $200
    1984 Grant Gift Edition of The Talisman $400
    Lisey's Story ARC $50
    .
    .

    WANTED
    Signed 1st Edition of Storm of The Century (Paperback)

  15. #440
    Maerlyn's Imp tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4 has a reputation beyond repute tippy4's Avatar

    Join Date
    May 2007
    Location
    Southern California
    Posts
    5,002
    My Mood
    Hot
    Country
    Country Flag

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by webstar1000 View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    I agree that it is a gray area though. LOL and im not trying to make a blanket statement about anyone who sells something and turns a profit. There is plenty of opportunity to mask your motivation and hide behind anonymous selling platforms like ebay.

    I just try and support Sellers that have a passion for collecting and love the items/Art/Stories in a similar way that I do
    I really like dealing with people that love it like me. David for sure. Ralph... class act and good friend. I liked how you put it into perspective with that statement. I'm with ya.... when I see IT paperbacks that some guy cornered King and got a sig on it and has it on eBay for $750... those are the ones I detest.
    Kris, I am going to put you on the spot for a moment, and I hope you will forgive me for doing so.

    You recently posted you were willing to pay $7,500 USD for a NLR set...something that was given away for free to party guests. Now, assuming it was sold for one cent at the party, that is a markup of 750,000% if my math is correct. And if someone takes you up on your offer, you would be happy, the seller would be happy, and nobody is "screwed".

    My point is, that we as collectors create the demand and prices for these items, which in turn creates flipping.

    It's like a drug user complaining about all the drug dealers on the corner.....or a guy who hires day laborers at Home Depot complaining about all the "illegals" in the country.........or the guy who pays $500 for an IT GE, and then complains about flippers.

    EDIT....I want to thank the two users who just sent me the two nice reputation comments....much appreciated guys!
    FOR SALE OR TRADE

    Dark Tower 7 Artist Edition n/a
    The Waste Lands 1st Edition in Shrinkwrap $200
    1984 Grant Gift Edition of The Talisman $400
    Lisey's Story ARC $50
    .
    .

    WANTED
    Signed 1st Edition of Storm of The Century (Paperback)

  16. #441
    Don't. Get. Married. Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon people like to rub elbows with me Shannon's Avatar

    Join Date
    Mar 2011
    Location
    Las Vegas, NV
    Posts
    8,280
    My Mood
    Twisted
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default


  17. #442
    Live it. webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000 is loved more than Jesus webstar1000's Avatar

    Join Date
    Oct 2013
    Location
    Halifax, Nova Scotia
    Posts
    18,463
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by tippy4 View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by webstar1000 View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Lookwhoitis View Post
    I agree that it is a gray area though. LOL and im not trying to make a blanket statement about anyone who sells something and turns a profit. There is plenty of opportunity to mask your motivation and hide behind anonymous selling platforms like ebay.

    I just try and support Sellers that have a passion for collecting and love the items/Art/Stories in a similar way that I do
    I really like dealing with people that love it like me. David for sure. Ralph... class act and good friend. I liked how you put it into perspective with that statement. I'm with ya.... when I see IT paperbacks that some guy cornered King and got a sig on it and has it on eBay for $750... those are the ones I detest.
    Kris, I am going to put you on the spot for a moment, and I hope you will forgive me for doing so.

    You recently posted you were willing to pay $7,500 USD for a NLR set...something that was given away for free to party guests. Now, assuming it was sold for one cent at the party, that is a markup of 750,000% if my math is correct. And if someone takes you up on your offer, you would be happy, the seller would be happy, and nobody is "screwed".

    My point is, what we as collectors create the demand and prices for these items, which in turn creates flipping.

    It's like a drug user complaining about all the drug dealers on the corner.....or a guy who hires day laborers at Home Depot complaining about all the "illegals" in the country.........or the guy who pays $500 for an IT GE, and then complains about flippers.

    EDIT....I want to thank the two users who just sent me the two nice reputation comments....much appreciated guys!
    Well said. Rich it's A-OK brother. Your right. I did offer that and I WOULD HAVE BEEN HAPPY if a flipper came to me with one. I did get something I needed though. Something excited came about by my generous offer. AND THAT makes me happy excited and ok with the person that sold it. So pick on me more. I will be making that offer even sweeter down the road. Rick, I owe you an apology from when I first came here
    Too. I basically called you a flipper and since then you have helped me a few times.
    I have learned a lot... and learned respect and made friends with many that flipped. My collection has GROWN immensely by me selling gift editions and what not from people that don't want to bother with it. I'm happy and excited to say... I have gotten 35% of my collection give or take from doing this. Anyways. Sorry rick... I feel ya brother and what you do. There sure as hell ain't anything wrong with it. Cheers mate! Kris


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    HELP ME FIND
    Insomnia #459
    ANY S/L #459

  18. #443
    Rabid Billybumbler DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of

    Join Date
    Jul 2013
    Location
    Massachusetts
    Posts
    2,955
    My Mood
    Cheerful
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Room 217 Caretaker View Post
    Wow! Actually, this is a sad discussion and here's why:

    I've been collecting King since 1980 (yep 1980).

    I'm one of those collectors who purchased S/L books along the way at publish price. So, I recently sold one of my 2 copies of Danse Macabre S/L for right around $900 that I purchased when released for I believe was $75 (could be wrong on that price). So, if I'm understanding the conversation here, I should be selling my copies for what I paid, not the market value?

    I guess I'm a hated flipper.

    Mulleins
    Nope - I wish you had sold one to me!

  19. #444
    Rabid Billybumbler DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of DoctorZaius has much to be proud of

    Join Date
    Jul 2013
    Location
    Massachusetts
    Posts
    2,955
    My Mood
    Cheerful
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by zelig View Post
    I feel kinda strongly about this discussion. I agree with what Lookwhoitis is saying. Whether the word "flipper" is misplaced here or not isn't really important. What is relevant is the underlying point of it all. I have no problem with people making a fair profit selling books, whether it's David or an individual collector. My problem is with price gouging. How many times have we seen someone selling an item for some ridiculous price that may have very little to do with the production value or scarcity of the book, and more to do with the the seller taking advantage of the buyer by making a grossly unreasonable profit.

    Sure, nothing wrong with making a profit.... but my personal opinion is that there should be a line in the sand. Who really wins in a deal like this? It's a one-sided transaction. The seller made off like a bandit, and the buyer just got screwed. That's what I have an issue with. The seller could care less about the book, or the buyer's experience, and all that matters is making a massive profit.
    I guess I am not sure what you mean. Even if a seller sells something for an outrageous price, what does it matter? No one is twisting a buyer's arm in the process. In the end the buyer sets the price, either by buying or waiting it out. I see this happen on eBay all the time. A new Stephen King signed book hits the secondary market and the prices are high (demand) and then they eventually even out and settle much lower (also demand). I see no problem in either case. I also think it's important to distinguish between the books that are listed on eBay and the ones that are listed. Those that are asking ridiculous prices rarely sell. In the end, your line in the sand is always drawn by the buyer's willingness to pay, and not the seller's right to assign a price.

  20. #445
    Rabid Billybumbler Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of Joe315 has much to be proud of

    Join Date
    Sep 2012
    Posts
    2,880
    Country
    Country Flag

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Room 217 Caretaker View Post
    Wow! Actually, this is a sad discussion and here's why:

    I've been collecting King since 1980 (yep 1980).

    I'm one of those collectors who purchased S/L books along the way at publish price. So, I recently sold one of my 2 copies of Danse Macabre S/L for right around $900 that I purchased when released for I believe was $75 (could be wrong on that price). So, if I'm understanding the conversation here, I should be selling my copies for what I paid, not the market value?

    I guess I'm a hated flipper.

    Mulleins
    Sounds more like you are an investor.

  21. #446
    Demon of the Prim AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC has much to be proud of AKC's Avatar

    Join Date
    Apr 2011
    Location
    NW Arkansas
    Posts
    2,592
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Anybody stop to consider that the Buyer that purchased the 4 S/L IT's from David did so simply to add them to their collection?

    It's not uncommon for most of us to have 2+ copies of the same book or Signed/Limited in our respective collections.

    Just sayin'...

  22. #447
    Citizen of Gilead Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of Alec has much to be proud of

    Join Date
    Jan 2014
    Posts
    758

    Default

    Interesting point.
    There is a tendency to assume they will be sold on for a profit.
    I am one of those people that is inclined to purchase multi copies of those I like. However, if I had purchased them the possibility of them returning to the market place is slim.

    A.

  23. #448
    Goldmember Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker people like to rub elbows with me Room 217 Caretaker's Avatar

    Join Date
    May 2007
    Location
    Way EAST of Patrick
    Posts
    3,969
    My Mood
    Amused
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by Joe315 View Post
    Quote Originally Posted by Room 217 Caretaker View Post
    Wow! Actually, this is a sad discussion and here's why:

    I've been collecting King since 1980 (yep 1980).

    I'm one of those collectors who purchased S/L books along the way at publish price. So, I recently sold one of my 2 copies of Danse Macabre S/L for right around $900 that I purchased when released for I believe was $75 (could be wrong on that price). So, if I'm understanding the conversation here, I should be selling my copies for what I paid, not the market value?

    I guess I'm a hated flipper.

    Mulleins
    Sounds more like you are an investor.
    Nope! A full on flipper. Nothing more. Not a collector at all. A true deplorable horrible flipper. Who's King? I never read a book or saw a movie by her (or is it a him?). Anyway, I started buying books in the early 80's with one purpose and one purpose only. To sell at a high price (because I could see the future).

    I've found valuable books in stores and on eBay, purchased them, and have sold them. Therefore, I am a flipper. I'm not going to apologize for it. There have been times I've made money by selling the book and used the money to buy a book I needed and times I've let a member have it below what I paid to help him/her out (making me a reversed deplorable horrible flipper).

    Hello, my name is Ralph Mulleins, and I'm a proud horrible deplorable flipper.


    Mulleins
    Last edited by Room 217 Caretaker; 08-13-2017 at 07:31 AM. Reason: Because I think his is a funny topic.
    I'm the caretaker of Room 217..............I've always been the caretaker of Room 217

  24. #449
    "I'm working on my sense of humor" Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an seldom gets put on hold Br!an's Avatar

    Join Date
    Jun 2013
    Location
    “No matter how cynical you get, it is impossible to keep up” -Lily Tomlin
    Posts
    10,590
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    I've heard the gamut of arguments; legal, ethical, personal, political, economic, et. al..

    Everyone can buy, sell and trade as the opportunity presents itself. After all a large part of collecting is buying, selling, and trading.

    It's been that way since before capitalism. There isn't anything legally wrong with it unless it rises to the level of a crime.

    Is there anything ethically or morally wrong with buying to resell? Perhaps there is, perhaps there isn't.

    Ethics and morals depend on perspective. To a capitalist, or a capitalist system supporter, there is no ethical violation when you make an outsized profit. In this view the suckers get what they deserve as a result of their own ignorance. The market prevails. To many a socialist, people of faith, atheists, humanists and also capitalists of conscience there is an ethical/moral violation. To them taking advantage of another person, instead of trading fairly, is not acceptable.

    Most of us on this site collect. We buy, we sell, we sometimes help others out, we sometimes make a profit. Most of us are able to do all of that without screwing each other over. Unfortunately, that does occasionally happen.
    "One day you're going to figure out that everything they taught you was a lie."

  25. #450
    Demon of the Prim TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi is a splendid one to behold TCCBodhi's Avatar

    Join Date
    Mar 2009
    Location
    Irving, TX, USA
    Posts
    1,480
    Country
    Country Flag
    Gender
    Gender

    Default

    Perhaps I could sell at issue price, and then charge for the time I spend at the post office (and call it 'handling'. Roughly a half hour and 2 times through the line to mail out an item last week.
    WANTED
    US 1st Printings. I have THESE
    #92 IT Portfolio (or the #95 IT to swap for the #92 that I have)
    Any #95 SK-related Cemetery Dance Edition
    Any #7 PS Publishing Edition
    Sleeping Beauties: Signed Tour version.

+ Reply to Thread
Page 18 of 20 FirstFirst ... 8 16 17 18 19 20 LastLast

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts