Yup, that's how I've always done it. I do check into things a bit before I buy. I make sure I've got a good address and phone number, and run the phone number through a reverse-lookup on anywho.com. If I've got any questions, I call the seller and make sure we're both on the same page.

I think the most important thing in dealing with people is communication. I send email when I send things, and expect the other party to do the same.