I've sold 15 Bally early SS games and 5 Gottlieb EM's plus a couple Willliams in the last 3 years, another 35 in the prior 17 years. All went smoothly, knock wood. Some went to local friends, many via Pinside and a few via CL and only one on eBay. The majority were fully working semi or fully restored games. I always give 1st person to contact 1st dibs. But we need to speak on the phone so I get a feel for the buyer. If they sound like a tire kicker or unable to do minor repairs after picking it up and dragging 100's miles home, that's an issue. I've given phone support on a couple sales when they got their game home to resolve minor issues.

I only gotten a deposit a couple times, I'm old school and expect your commitment to buy is real and serious. I expect "cash on the glass" as mentioned here 1K times. Had a Centaur buyer concerned about carrying over 4K in cash, was a deal breaker till he decided to travel 275 miles with cash. You play it and pay cash, simple.

On the flip side, I've reached a price with a seller, gave my commitment to buy it, offered a deposit and it was refused. I will generally pick up a game in 2-5 days. Lost several because the seller took another offer just to move it a day sooner. It is what it is.