"Are you really going to search through 10,000 Sanyo model A4110 stereo systems to ensure that something isn't stolen?"
This is the age of computers; let them do the search. They would need to have the manufacturer, model and serial number in a standardized format to make it work easily, but that is possible, after all.
I understand how computers work. The point was that you would receive several hundred "hits" and then have to search through those. If the person had the item stolen happened to have the serial numbers, why wouldn't they just report them stolen to the police? Why wouldn't the buyer jus call the police with the serial number to see if it is stolen? This is how it is done today. As far as being a downer, I think I have brought up some very valid points. I am self employed and own several businesses, some of which have grossed in excess of a million dollars per year. I have evaluated hundreds of business ideas for my self. I do know what I am talking about when it comes to ideas like this. I am not someone who has been laid off, unemployed, disatisfied with life. If you disagree with me, disagree with me, but don't throw out speculation about my current employment or financial situation. It only makes you look stupid. This is a free country so spend all your money trying to get people to remember what the serial number on their tv and vcr were and then pay your three to seven dollars to put it on your web site. (I guess they could not post a pic unless they just happened to have one in their home inventory file) Then, once people hear about the buzz you have created, they will naturally remember to check your web site the next time they are buying a used mountain bike or something off of ebay. What if an item was stolen in one city and sold in another? I guess the user could just search his city and the others within a 250 mile radius right? Here are some stats for the Houston area alone for 2002
Houston Robberies 11212
Houston Burglaries 26905
Houston Larceny/Thefts 73445
Houston Motor Vehicle Thefts 23939
The idea is stupid and I hope this makes you mad enough to go spend all of your money trying to prove me wrong. This way you end up proven wrong and broke. Have a nice day.