most of the stuff I get I use the "Buy it Now" option. The other up side is that one of my regular sellers is local, so no shipping, I just make a trip to Bridgeton and pick up the new treasure(s).
Yeah I noticed about the shipping hike too, it amazes my that they can dictate shipping rates to sellers.
I've only had one issue with a kit and missing parts. I bought an old AMT B-26 Marauder that came in missing its clear parts, so its gonna get used for the other AMT B-26 I bought thats complete, then I'm gonna build the other as a derelict.
If you can believe it though, I've only had issue with one seller and after the customer service I got I wont be doing business with them again.
As for being ready to build, I'm slowly getting to where I can get to the bench, school has been more important because of a decided career change.
I have gotten some smoke'n deals in the last year though, I think thats what keeps me coming back