Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Another question here..What do you think about buying from the classifieds? There is an ad in Pythons for a CCPxJCP mix. It looks like a great deal but it seems risky. Does anyone know this person? Could you take a look at the ad and tell me what you think, its alittle more than halfway down the page..Also there is a Reptile expo coming up in March in my area and I have never been to one, do they jack up the prices for these things or can you get some good deals(its in Kansas City btw)..It seems that might be better for me since I can see the animals but I am sooo Impatient..Any advice here would be hot..
and thanx for putting up with my newbie questions.

Ray

Haven't tried the classifieds here. Shows are great. The prices are usually as good as online and much cheaper than a pet store. Plus you get to see the animal, talk to the breeder or seller, and don't have to pay shipping. You may even find another animal you might like better.

I have never bought from a classified ad. I don't like the idea of going to someones house and looking at his/her's animals. I know some are good breeders but it just doesn't appeal to me. The first time I went to a Reptile Expo I was amazed! It was so neat. You can see all kinds of animals and talk to so many different people about different reptiles. I'd wait for the show if you can!

You can buy from the classifieds, but you will have to pay shipping. And, as you pointed out, you don't get a feel for the seller. Some of the people selling on there are as honest as the day is long, and some are not.

You are much better off at a show, as long as they are going to have some decent vendors. Check the show's website and look at the vendor list.

Prices at shows are usually about as cheap as you can find. Also, if you wait until the end of the show (especially a 2 day show!) the prices often come down as vendors are willing to deal so they don't have to take the animal back home. Of course, by waiting, you risk losing the specific animal you are waiting for. Tough choice.
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Chris Harrison

I would wait for the show. Breeders do mark the prices up some, but that is because most people want to haggle at the shows. So, remember you can trying to work with the seller on the price. Spend the next few months till the show continuing to do research.

tom