...... before anybody was allowed to bid they would have to pay bond.  However, if I was told that I am not allowed to bid unless I pay something up-front, I would have never started to buy on eBay.

Oh yes you would, so would anyone who really wanted the item (a can presume they all really want something they are bidding on, not doing it just because they can  - for free, to amuse themselves, to pass the time, for something to do.

I shop on the auction site where all memebers have to pay deposit, otherwise you can't start bidding. I guess that company is smart - it just doesn't want time wasters and cheapskates.

If you don't win you are refunded everything but the $10.

There is also an amazing US seller, on Ebay, they couldn't care less about the negs, they operate just like any store, profits are the first priority.  They sell totally faaaaaabulous gear, one could just about have EVERYTHING on their site! And they are very busy and very succsessful.

As much as they can't charge up front (being  on Ebay), they deduct 20-30% of everyone's refund if they are wasting their time. That fee also takes care of those who buy something for the weekend and then they want the refund on Monday.

There are also B& M stores in US with a doorman at the door, if they know you you can go in and if they deem you are a bit iffy you need to give the imprint of your credit card , just like hotels do at check in, and the fee is $100US for browsing, shopping comes on top with $100 deducted from the final total.

And I have never heard of establishments like the above ever going broke or closing down because no one want's to shop there and doesn't agree to their conditions.