Holiday Shopping and eBay - A Perfect Combination

[Barb]

Be sure to check out the holiday shopping area for the latest ads and sales!



The holiday crunch is right around the corner. Don't let this become another year of scrambling for gifts and paying much more than you have to. If you've never tried eBay before, now is the time!
Some shy away from eBay just because they've never tried it before, some have heard horror stories about items paid for and not received, while still others have preconceived notions that eBay is too confusing and not worth the effort. Not so! Buying on eBay is easy, you'll save money, and best of all, it's fun!

Here are several tips to make sure your first experience with eBay is a positive one:


Check Seller Feedback - Afraid of being scammed? If you are considering making a purchase, check the seller's feedback first. It's the little number located right next to the eBay seller's screen name. Just click on it and you will be able to read what others have to say about the experiences they've had with that particular seller. This can put your mind at ease, especially on a large dollar purchase.


Use PayPal - Always pay for your purchases through the PayPal system. This provides you with added protection from fraudulent sellers through PayPal's 'buyer protection' program. Basically, if you pay through PayPal and the item doesn't ship to you, or is not as described, PayPal will reimburse you and collect from the seller.


Don't Get Caught Up In Winning - Sounds like a no-brainer, but it's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of a bidding war and end up spending much more than you would have liked on an item. The best thing to do to prevent this is to place a maximum bid on an item and then forget about it.


Check Other Sellers - Before you bid any higher, do a search to double check on that particular item. Someone may have put one just like it on auction for less, or better yet, it may be on a 'Buy it Now" for less than you were about to bid.


Develop a Strategy - This can be fun as well as rewarding. Try to bid on an item that is ending during lower traffic times or days of the week that aren't as busy. You will have less competition and are more likely to win the auction. Also check the 'ending soon' status. Sometimes you can scoop an item up in the last minute or two of bidding and get a steal!

eBay has made great improvements over the years, and with these tips you will have a rewarding and safe experience. Also remember that as a new buyer without a proven track record, the sellers may be wary of you as well. Be sure to pay promptly and leave positive feedback when deserved. Good luck and happy shopping!