would this kill a purchase for you?

I knew it was not personal - I was just giving an answer full of what I thought was rather dry humor while at the same time being right on the money, but I meant it to be humorous nonetheless. I didn't take your post as offensive nor personal and kind of liked that you got the math right!

He may be a little arrogant but if he is in fact the only one who can supply a particular snake I am looking for, I would buy from him. The thing that always kills it for me is when I ask for a pic and get told there isn't one available. No pic means I won't buy it. Arrogance, well, I probably would end up buying it if I wanted it.

It would totally kill it for me! I find that statement arrogant and rude, even if it's the truth. Even if he was the only one that had that particular snake, there's always another snake I like just as well elsewhere. I would rather deal with a nicer person and I would move on to someone else if I saw that statement. It's what is on the inside that matters and openly telling people on the advertisement that he's the only one that has these things in such a snotty way, doesn't show me a good image of what's on the inside.

I also agree with the comments made about sending pics to "serious inquiries only." You never know who will end up being your best customer or who may know someone who ends up being your best customer...it's always better to be friendly and considerate to everyone until they give you a reason not to. I think it's important to establish a relationship with those you buy and sell from, especially online. Sometimes dedicating a little time to a potential customer is what makes or breaks the sale.