Cross-posted on coffeegeek.com (hadn't yet seen the no cross-posting message... newbie mistake, sorry)

The craigslist ad read:

"Only used for 2-3 months at a small church (attendance 60, open twice a week) so the usage is extremely minimal.

Mac 2000 V1 Automatic
Original Price: 2890.00"

I went to pick it up and had it in my trunk but was starting to get concerned because it looked more "used" than I expected. I had asked the seller to bring their original receipt so that I could potentially get any remaining warranty and they agreed. So before handing over the $1200 (seemed like a good deal for a 2-3 month old $2500-3000 machine) I asked to see the receipt. They handed it to me and it showed they had purchased the unit refurbished for $1500! So what they really meant was that it had been used by them for only 2-3 months at a small church... they had no idea of it's prior life. I politely told the seller that they had misled me in their ad and that I wouldn't be completing the transaction. I helped them put it back in their car and then I drove away. Whew! Close call.

So when I got home from work tonight I ordered the new Expobar Brewtus III with PID and Rotary Pump, a Compak K-3 Touch, pitchers, knock box, thermometer, and a great assortment of coffee. With 10% discount my total bill was under $2400. Don't mess with me...

Kevin (Newbie upgrading from a Briel Charmonix that I have used regularly for about 5 years)

Wow, interesting story and close call. I guess the lesson is buyer beware; you were smart to have wanted to check the receipt. I am also now extremely jealous of you and your soon to be rocking setup. Good luck with it all!

Zach...no need to apologize for equipment. If the coffee tastes good to you, then it IS good.
The fact you hang around here, learning like all of us is cool, and when you're a bit more 'well heeled', I'm sure the first thing you'll do is purchase Mazzer Robur and GS3.
Or maybe a new car...a out the same price point!