Posted By:
davidcyclebackJeff, I don't think there are any saints in the equation. For example, I said snipe bidders are a cause of sellers ending auctions ending early. However, one reason bidders place snipes is because some sellers shill.
I agree with your point. It's unethical and unfair for a seller to skip out on eBay fees while using eBay's exposure to gain the sale. If you don't want to pay the fees, don't use eBay.
On the other hand (we've got six hands so far, but I never said my arguments were anatomically correct), some would argue eBay has enabled shillers, which has increased snipers, which has increased auctions ending early.
It's known as the circle of life.