Deals that seem too good to be true?

[Anatopism]

Just weighing in... we have sold a couple hatchlings before shed to friends that know the risk, and who we know will come to us with any questions, and are close enough to ask for help. These are people that listen and follow directions well. They will set up a tub exactly like we say, and start exactly as we would.. and if something doesn't work, we know they'll be diligent about seeking help.

We would never sell a snake that hasn't been started to a random person we've met only for the purpose of selling a snake, because I don't trust the average person to get them started properly. There are also several people/friends we know in person, who are great people, but who hear what they want to hear, and I wouldn't chance giving any snake that hasn't eaten a minimum of 3 times. We also have sold a couple normals to the pet shop that reopened down the street ... and I made certain to only give them snakes that have eaten in a variety of settings and who never refuse even in shed. (We've also become much closer with them, and they now ask us for help with their reptiles, have asked me to help a customer with tarantula Qs, and trust us to reach into tanks and adjust husbandry as necessary )

Point being, we adjust our sales accordingly, to provide the best chance at success for both the buyers and the snakes themselves. I don't however condemn a breeder for selling hatchlings pre-shed/meal, if the buyer is made clearly aware of the risks involved. If they know the risks, it is their responsibility to get the animal started, and to ask the appropriate questions when necessary. I am a micro-manager when it comes to selling the snakes... while I will refuse sales to people I know have a bad reputation for proper husbandry, and this may lose me money short term, I'm also of the mindset that healthy animals and accessibility as a seller will results profit.