Hi Hedley,
Yes I know your name because I looked at your other posts. Wasn't that hard with only two, but you don't seem like the demon (or 16 year old) you've been made out to be by some. I think your post could have been worded just a little differently and you would of had a completely different reaction here. Actually you could nearly keep it the same and learn the not so subtle art of using smiley emoticons as mentioned - (insert one here). I actually hate them and the overuse of them but it does help in not being misconstrued to a degree. Of course they also can be used as an excuse to say some nasty stuff.
I nevertheless agree with all your points. Some of these guys have obviously known each other for years either personally or through the forum and are comfortable with each other and have mutual trust. To a newbie it can seem a little weird having the "a great item" comment in their from another. And yes, acronyms suck and assumed knowledge sucks but it is a way to learn when you go scouring the net for the meaning. Agreed though, it is not the best for the direct and quick sale of the item.
Don't get me started on blurry photos! Whoops forgot the smiley there.
A good idea is to have a look at the sellers previous posts. I have on a couple of occasions now seen the "new, unused, unwanted present" being talked about in use. Sure it "could" have been a double and was unwanted but who knows - (smiley). Having said that I have bought 5 items so far all with excellent results.
Anyway hope all this hasn't scared you off for another 5 years. It is a great forum with some odd but possibly lovable characters
.
Cheers
Dave