So I just signed up for localbitcoins.com and got in touch with the first seller to buy some in person. Two things I don't understand though:
1. Here on the forum I read you should wait for six confirmations, but localbitcoins says when you get the "transaction verify code" from the seller, the deal is done and you can release your money. Now which one is it?
2. I see huge price differences there, and the prices are not really moving. Are they only set every couple of hours or so or are they a fixed price? It has to be a parameter the seller puts up on his profile, right? And who are the idiots buying from the most expensive guys?
1. although local bitcoins.com gives you the code within seconds of the system seeing the funds put into escrow, it is still advisable to atleast get 1 confirmation to assure that the escrowed funds are not a double spend.
2. the seller can either put in a fixed amount or a maths equation that auto adjusts dependant on an exchanges price movements plus a premium ontp for the seller to profit.
sometimes the most expensive guys, are the guys that are always online, reliable and they don't con you. if you see a price below the exchanges average value and not offering an escrow service. stay well clear