Sellers love getting paid quickly, who wouldn't? But just because you pay quickly does not warrant instant feedback, which is completely voluntarily according to eBay's policy. To boot, some sellers require that you pay immediately when using "Buy it Now", so its not so much that the buyer paid immediately out of goodness, but had no choice to do so before bidding/buying because of the seller requirements. Why should a seller wait? In case the buyer leaves unjustified negative feedback, I would feel like **bleep** knowing I left praise for that buyer. I am not a power-seller and I rely on my feedback, being someone who uses eBay as a tool for buying and selling.
I do agree however, that lately sellers have been waiting to receive positive feedback from the buyer first before giving any. I believe this is due to eBay's change in policy that prevents sellers from leaving negative feedback for buyers, but buyers who deserve it. I use a strict ethical code when listing my auctions, descriptions, and shipping info. I like to believe because of this, I've never had any complications with buyers, with the exception of one customer who never paid or replied to emails.
What you have to realize is feedback is a two-way street, and leaving blind feedback is not good (for both sellers and buyers), in case the buyer makes illegitimate claims. In my opinion, the buyer should leave feedback first, but only after they receive their product and it's in the condition stated on the listing, matches the images, and ships within a timely manner. In turn, positive feedback should be left ASAP for that buyer.
So what about the buyer that genuinely has a discrepancy with the product they received, let's say due to the fact it didn't match the description in some way. That buyer is entitled to return that item, but he/she should first inform the seller, at least giving the benefit of the doubt. If the seller doesn't respond or at least try to accommodate you, then negative feedback for the seller would be appropriate. Most disappointed buyers see the feedback system as a means to "take revenge" on a seller, not even giving the seller a chance. The seller then can not even defend themselves because eBay is a buyer's market, and doesn't allow sellers to leave neutral or negative feedback. If the seller is willing to sort out his or her customer in a positive way, then the seller is being responsible and either no feedback should be left, or at least tell people you had a problem with the item and the seller worked with you. Instead we get all caps warning potential buyers to steer clear of this seller, or "Don't Buy", never having even tried to contact the seller. And sellers are supposed to feel encouraged to leave blind feedback? It can be discouraging at times.
As a buyer, I don't expect feedback from a seller right after I pay for an item, or even before I leave them feedback ( I try to look at everything from both sides, and I buy and sell regularly on the awesomeness that is eBay). Once I receive my product and I'm satisfied, then I'll leave praising feedback. At this point, I expect the seller to reply in kind, at least within 1 working week. People think their feedback number is like their Twitter followers, I assure you it's not the case. If I make a purchase, pay immediately, and personally don't believe the product matches the listing once it arrives (which it should, no excuses here sellers - Always be honest and accurate), I would first contact the seller and try to work it out in a professional manner. If the seller sorts me out, perfect, I'll even leave positive feedback if I am accommodated nicely. If the experience is a negative one, then I feel its my responsibility to note of that in the feedback.
In conclusion, I realize there will always be 2 schools of thought on this subject, and buyers and sellers are entitled to their opinions on these boards. Members who are not power-sellers are skeptical of leaving feedback before the buyer because they fear suffering inaccurate & unfair feedback and doesn't want to risk giving praise if there's gonna be a problem later on, thus the waiting game begins. While writing this I understand the buyer's perspective a little more. Personally I don't mind not getting instant feedback from a seller, as long as I get it eventually, I'll be a happy eBayer. But always remember that feedback is optional.
The long and short of it in my opinion: Doesn't actually matter who leaves feedback first, as long as both parties leave accurate feedback and contact each other directly if any discrepancies, then that should be enough.
This post was not meant to offend or take sides, but simply offer my thoughts. Thank you for reading.
Remember, online shopping is supposed to be fun. We shouldn't assume the worst of buyers and sellers. This thread has also inspired me to leave blind feedback for a buyer who paid for an item right away.
Namaste
