[Blammar]

Yeah, the neutral party needs to verify both ends of the transaction.

Good point about subtle defects. Hmm. That I do not have an answer for, especially if the seller is not aware.

Maybe it's just not possible to trust the Ferengixxx humans...

[hattmall]

They had some eBay agents type thing a while back. I think they called it eBay concierge.

But something similar to a notary, could validate items if a certain value. I think they are doing this with sneakers and certain luxury goods.