So, let's say I want to sell something on one of the trade sub forums here on bitcointalk.
Do most people use escrow when purchasing something?
Also, when it comes to selling something yourself, if it's an item that say, only has a one time use like a code or something of that nature, is it normal to request payment first before sending such a code?
It depends on many factors such as reputation of trading partner and item's value. For example if you are dealing with a long-standing member with an item of minimal value you may not want to escrow, but if you're dealing with a new member for an item of high value you probably would.
I disagree. If the item is not going to be worth much with paying fees for the escrow, then I agree. However, if you still earn a profit then I would always use escrow. Maybe ask buyer to pay for escrow as a lot of sellers do. Small amount of Bitcoin today could be worth a lot more in the future.