I have to say, i disagree with some on this thread.
As an eBay seller, i leave feedback once it is left for me by the buyer. This way i know the item has been received okay, and that the transaction is now complete.
It's a very common situation, where the seller will leave feedback as soon as payment is received, meaning the buyer is 'safe' to do what they want. I.e file for a chargeback, leave a neg, send abusive mails etc.. in the knowledge that their feedback will not be jeopardised.
As an eBay buyer, i always leave feedback on receiving and inspection of the item. This way the seller knows i have received it, and that the transaction is complete.
Also, of course, there is no obligation to leave feedback, though i do agree that it is very much a big part of the eBay system, i always leave feedback.
Though there was one occasion where i didn't. The item i received took a little longer than i expected, so i chose not to leave feedback, as i didn't mind enough to leave a neut or a neg, but also didn't feel like giving a positive.
Now, that person hassled me for feedback. If anyone ever did it again i would just leave them a juicy neg with the comment "Here is the feedback you so desperately wanted".
Harsh i know, but some people go way OTT when demanding feedback and sending FeedBack Reminders every day.
When buying on selling on eBay you need to accept that not everyone will leave you feedback. My feedback should be up to around 130 by now, but it's only 115 because some people don't play the game
