... and 99.99% of the time, you are right, but I'll have to agree to disagree with you. I have heard of scenarios where buyers have tried to blackmail sellers with feedback too. Here's one that fortunately did not happen to me:

There are sellers who are quite up front with their wares, use very clear pictures and descriptions, and note that items are "as is". Still, you get the occasional very difficult buyer who suddenly decides they don't want the item, or didn't look at pictures/read descriptions well up front, or whatever. They demand the seller reimburse full cost (incl. shipping) AND pay for return shipping of the item or they'll leave negative feedback. Most sellers are honest people and many will take items back, or work something out. Frankly, in the above case, they really shouldn't have to, should they? You make a contract when you bid and you should fulfill it. If you didn't read carefully, well... (Oh... and don't get me started on pro sports players and contracts!)

Anyhow, I really believe both parties should hold off feedback until everything is settled and the deal is done. I, for one, want to see appropriate negatives from sellers to buyers when appropriate. (I've seen clear cases of the above. Next time I see another, maybe I'll post the link to it and we can start another 40 post chain again. )

I have to admit, it really troubles me all the posts from folks who suspect sellers who do not leave immediate feedback upon paying. Are you also the ones offended when the bank tellar asks for your id? I don't understand them either. JUST KIDDING... Honestly, the first time a seller left feedback to me before I recieved the auction item, I about fell out of my chair. It was not the normal experience for me. (and I mostly buy. Of my 254 ebay transactions, I'd bet only about 20-30 were where I sold items.)

Anyhow, I hope the above helps explain where I'm coming from. I'm not trying to convince anyone of anything. Again, this is "tastes great, less filling" argument.

Keep chippin!

Bryan