I can't see any of the messages, they have been removed.
But what you need to know is that, ridiculous as it might seem to you at first glance, you can't arrange to inspect items before you buy, exchange addresses and phone numbers etc
I know you may not have meant any harm at all, just wanted to see it before bidding or buying on ebay, but ebay has clamped down on those sorts of messages because of course there is the possibility, if you meet up and pay cash on the spot, that the item might not be sold officially 'on' ebay ie ebay would miss out on fees.
And that's a legitimate concern as after all, they hosted the ad, they have given the seller the coverage to find buyers, so they are entitled to their commission.
Without being able to see any details of the actual seller, just going on your description, I don't get the feeling the seller is any kind of fraud. If he has a lot of great feedback, then he is probably genuine. Ebay may have given him a warning about his messages, he may not even be able to see or respond to messages at the moment, who knows.
If you think the $500 price is good, and if the item is still for sale, you could buy it and arrange for pick up then (if pick up is an option in the ad). That way, if the item isn't as described, you just don't pay at pick up. Even if the item is posted out, if it is not as described, you could open an ebay case, though I know you don't want to get into that situation if it can be avoided. Best thing is to ask questions about an item when in doubt so you have a clear idea about what you are buying.
