I can see your point for this thread, Mark. Although I can sympathize with those who have lots to sell, I think your point is valid that the prices should reflect the dirty and unkempt condition of the items.
Tom, I have also found that when certain cleaners or parts are mentioned on this site the items tend to appear shortly thereafter on eBay at inflated prices--as if all of a sudden they are a must have for people just because they were discussed.
What also sometimes bugs me about the eBay experience is the lack of business acumen some listers have. They would rather list an item for months on end at the same price than lower it--or they say that their hefty shipping rate "can't" be changed. That type of stubbornness turns off my desire to bid on their item. Nothing on eBay is a "must have" for me but "nice to have". Then, there are those who simply ignore price offers or message requests for more information--very rude. Also, a few that do give information avoid specifics (even though they encourage you to look at their photos and ask them questions before bidding, because they do not accept returns). I actually had one such lister tell me that the item had already been packaged and s/he couldn't remember what the exact condition was; all s/he could tell me was that it was in good condition for its age (which probably meant stains, rips, tears, fading, and wrinkles were part of its age). haha
By the same token, though, there are listers who are friendly, ready to negotiate, take pride in how they present their items, eager to be of service in providing more information, list their items at reasonable starting bids, and provide shipping rate options.
Going back to your original comment, Mark, I personally think that a once-over with a dust and wipe is not too much to ask in most situations. I can't imagine that the majority of listers are selling large amounts of estate or business items. I had to laugh at one recent lister who commented in the listing that s/he chose not to clean up the item for fear that it would fall apart (it was all rusty)! The price, though, amazingly wasn't commensurate with the condition.
I think the Golden Rule should be followed in most cases (with the understanding that there are sometimes extenuating circumstances that may prevent it): "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
