Guy wasn't a jerk when I interacted with him. I met him a month ago and bought a pin from him. I played the corvette. It was in pretty nice shape, though not clean. I didn't notice rust, but I wasn't buying that pin.

Sure, the garage was a mess, but I wasn't buying the garage. Yes, the pin I went for was in worse shape than I expected, but I was very apologetic about it not meeting my expectations, and he was super nice about it and we came to an arrangement that we both found agreeable. Buying and selling is a delicate dance and it's very easy for someone to get offended on either side of the table. It's my least favorite part of the hobby, by far.

The guy was the real deal and had a lot of war stories from being an operator and deals gone bad. I think it's tough for folks who've been in pinball for a long time, but also out of pinball recently to know what to make of the new inflated prices and the recent expectations on condition that accompany said prices.

Bottom line; I wasn't there when you were, but I wouldn't hesitate to but a pin from this guy again. I'm sorry you had a bad experience with him, but someone else might not. I also don't know how many jerks have shown up to his garage between me and you that might have changed his disposition. (I still owe him an email, actually).

I'm glad it wasn't a long drive for you, as a deal not working out is really frustrating. I'm also willing to bet that had you handled the encounter differently, he would have worked with you on the price.