At least I bought the Ashbory! An a top gent you were as well!
I too have had buyers 'mess' me around. I've held an item in good faith, on the back of constant communication for 6 weeks for them to turn around and say they found another. Very frustrating. But for every sale fallen through I have had 10 great transactions. The feedback section here are 99% positive so something works.
I guess it's the 'risk' you take when trading/selling via a source where no contracts of sale are applicable. Given the feedback thus far though I think it's fair to say you've had more bad luck than most, bit I don't think it's typical of the average basschatter. In defence of the chap thatce to yours... I have been to try a bass I was certain was perfect for me, only to not like it in the flesh. Yes, I did declare the fact there and then, but not everyone is as confident a communicator as me.
Sorry you've had some trouble with buyers on here, but rest assured some of us are awesome!