[MotownMadman]

Stefano,
As you stated so well, I would certainly enjoy the opportunity to do this type of work for free, unfortunatly I am not fortunate enough to work for free. In some cases on a high ticket item I have put in 60 to 80 hours on bringing buyer and seller together, after doing vehicle inspections, research, photo shoots, restoration cost anaylsis, travel expenses, phone and marketing expenses, liability in the event of incorrect car or componants, as well as placing my reputation on the line with every transaction. I have done a great deal of Pro Bono work among friends or the simple reference from buyer to seller or reverse if the parties to the transaction wish to do all the footwork themselves. I know that I would not purchase a 100 to 200 thousand dollar home without the services of a real estate agent for my own protection, and many people feel the same way about classic cars. Also, many collectors prefer to remain in the background for reasons of the whole world not knowing what they collect or the dollar amounts paid, as well as some not having the ability to find a qualified buyer in a timely manner. Some brokers have spent a lifetime doing research and gathering knowledge on these cars long before there was a great deal of interest in collecting them. Some people who have general basic knowledge of the industry prefer to act in a cautious manner by utilizing a expert in the field before risking any substancial amount of funds. Having a expert in the field to utilize is just another form of insurance, and also can provide all the time consuming footwork for the buyer/seller who may be too busy so the opportunity cost is too high not to use an agent/broker. I certainly dont go knocking on doors like a vacuum cleaner salesman, I have enough work backing up that sometimes it gets to the point that I am turning people away who are contacting me. In the event that I have to turn down prospective work I do refer that person to another capable person to conduct the transaction. Some individuals love the opportunity to do the footwork themselves, while others dont have time and would rather hire someone. Just one more instance of the beauty of freedom of choice.
Thanks,
Motown [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif[/img]