I agree with all the above. I've been using Ebay for 5 years and have about 50 transactions with 100%. Thats only about 75% of the actual auctions I've done. It's only a matter of time before you will get a negative hit. Things don't always go smoothly, even in the best attempts. I look at all of the feedback of sellers very closely before bidding and will pay slightly more for someone with very good feedback. I'm also honest with my shipping. Nothing burns me more then to pay $5 for someone to use a stamp. Who are they fooling. Stick to good Ebayers and you will be rewarded. As far as those that do not leave positive feedback, asking and explaning that you are trying to build your ratings would not hurt. There are a lot of honest Ebayers out there like you. You just have to find them. It also helps to know what you are selling and construct an informative auction. Beware those that obviously know nothing about what they are selling.
Here was one of my latest auctions: The muffler sold in 1 hour with a "buy it now". Should of asked for more?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4510011799&category=34203