Buying a used sight unseen off reverb

[Eurotelefan]

So, there's this specific Larrivee baker-t on reverb that's been up for awhile. I've been thinking hard about going for it, in part because it seems like a good price. I'm not as experienced as someone who would normally buy a boutique guitar like this, so I don't have the wisdom of mistakes in the past. What sort of concerns should I be looking for in this case? I do wish I could pick it up and play it, but Larrivees are pretty uncommon in Europe and it's nowhere near me.

[B0WIE]

Welcome to the forum. Be sure to check out the rules to get acquainted
I've bought many high end guitars online and, while my criteria are too lengthy to list, there's a few things I can share.

First, there's far fewer things that can go wrong with an electric. You're mostly looking at fret wear and cosmetic factors. Make sure it's noted that there's no structural issues, or ask, because sellers are responsible if something is not as described. For example, I bought a classical for several thousand and the finish was worn though in parts. That was not described so I had the option of sending it back at the seller's expense but I instead negotiated a $500 refund.

As long as the description is promising things that meet your satisfaction, the seller is obligated to deliver that. It's the listings with vague descriptions you need to watch out for. But, you can feel free to ask questions and the seller is still bound to those answers. Regarding it being there for a while, guitars aren't selling well right now, especially electrics, so that's not a red flag, IMO.

[jpmist]

To add to Bowie, I'll second "ask questions" and extend that further to ask for pictures of anything you have a concern about. A picture of the back where belt buckle rash usually lands, for example. A motivated seller, who's not a retail shop, should be happy to snap any cellphone pics you want if it would help result in a sale. "Show me the three worst marks in the finish" might be useful. If the seller can't be bothered, this then becomes really useful information for you in deciding to buy from them.

To add more, my experience has been with eBay Strat parts, bodies, necks, etc. The catch for me was always the risk of buying fake or china parts. Fortunately for your, it's highly unlikely anyone would sell a fake Larrivee Baker. Best of luck with it!

[JGW]

I have a Baker-t and love it.  Someday I'd like to get one of the RS-4s.  When I see them listed I look for any mods made.  I would rather have stock than someone else's preference in pickups.  And I do like the baker t pickups.