Everyone's gotta start somewhere, and sometimes that's something with a higher value I suppose.

I used to worry about ZFBs, but apart from the occasional non-payer, I never really had any issues.

Can you pop a disclaimer in your listings asking low or zero-feedback bidders to send you a quick message prior to bidding? Then just cancel those who don't message first.

And those that you do hear from, ask a customer-centric question that would likely elicit a response.

If I were selling a camera lens, I might ask "Have you checked to make sure this is compatibly with your camera - which model do you have?" Or for a pair of sneakers, "Have you worn other Adidas shoes in a US11? They tend to run slightly small." etc.

You can often gauge a buyer from their response to messages like this, and at the same time demonstrate what a thoughtful, helpful seller you are!