You really should join the club. Members have to live by a code of ethics so it is always preferred to deal with club members. There are some who will not trade or sell to nonmembers. Also other side benefits are things like contests run here that are only available to members and the big one - free entrance into the Powerball drawings sponsored by a member and available again only to club members.

You do need to go to the convention. It is worth the $20 preregistration fee just to see half a million casino chips. Plus meet in person the best people in the world.