I personally write all of my own descriptions, take all of my own photos, and package all items for mailing myself. I do not use text, photos or information from “other” sources and would certainly never do so without referencing them. Items pictured in any of my listings are always the actual items that buyers will receive from me.
My vinyl and cover/sleeve gradings are as follows:
MINT: I do not use this grade except for sealed/unopened items.
NEAR MINT or MINT MINUS: Vinyl looks basically brand new, untouched, unplayed or nearly unplayed. Cover looks pretty much as new with no real flaws to speak of. This is basically how the item would have looked when it was new from the factory.
VG++: Very close to M-, with vinyl showing only the very slightest, most subtle signs of any past handling or play. Cover may show just the barest hint of wear from age, but nothing at all serious or detracting.
VG+: Vinyl shows some subtle signs that it was played in the past, but was generally well taken care of. Cover shows only some minor signs of age or wear, but nothing too detracting.
VG: Vinyl is beginning to show more obvious signs of past handling and play but still has strong sound quality overall. Cover is beginning to show more signs of age and wear, but is fully intact and still displays very well overall.
GOOD: Vinyl has very obvious signs of wear from over the years, but still plays strongly and enjoyably enough. Cover has obvious wear and tear from age, but is intact and still displayable.
***My very good and good records are very good and good, not bad and even worse! I also do not use the EX (excellent) grading at all.***
FAIR: Record wasn’t properly cared for in the past and very clearly shows it, but it is still playable and should be enjoyable enough for some. I rarely offer records in this condition.