Sure there is (more accurately, are): high fees, stressful auction environment (although may suit gamblers just fine :o), non-paying high-bidders, time limitations, need for repeated listings, no idea what the item will sell for, no handle on the expenses. And for buyers: not knowing whether a last second bid will take away the item you had you eyes on, your high bid being realized because someone decided to put in a high bid (but just a tad below yours) at the last second. Checking the item frequently to make sure you are still in contention. Checking item frequently to make sure you did not miss the closing time so you can enter that last second bid. Missing the closing time so the item goes to someone else for a song (sellers don't enjoy this either). Finding out that the seller is really not interested in sending the item to you, but just in your money, and you really do not know who the heck sold you the item anyway. Finding out that the item described as fine is barely passable, etc.