Posted By:
Dave FPeter,
I think the problem is a dealer that is willing to give you a "discount" based on working up a relationship isn't going to stay in business too long.
If you have a card that has been going at auctions for $500...why would a dealer give you anything over $400 for it? What good would it do for him to give you trade valued at $500...he can't turn the card for a profit at that point...and isn't that what he is solely in the business to do?
I think your better off finding a collector willing to pay the $500 for it straight up...or even better..hope there is a collector that needs a certain card bad enough that you luck out getting $600 for it.
If you've just been working trades and buying from dealers...your overpaying and underselling.