I have never had a bad experience either.
My only advice is to see it in person and play it first.
I've never had a game taht was as nice as advertised.
For example, perfect But the clearcoat ghosted into all the inserts...
Very good but all the inserts are lifted and art is worn on the edges. etc.
I've just come to expect this sort of thing,. Plus when I drive 4 hours one way I'm probably gonna buy it anyways...

I totally agree to have the game in a garage, not be alone and don't let them see your collection.
Even if thier serious they might want to waste your time playing the games or realise thier 1000 game isn't as nice as the 4000 one.