16 of 25

Write now Article Tools

So you want to shop on Ebay, but it's all new to you...

A few helpful pointers to get you started:

1. Check the seller's feedback - pay attention to percentage over actual numbers - someone with 2000 total feedback comments, 100 of which are negative, still has a pretty good track record at 95% positive.

2. Check the shipping costs - seller's will often list an item at a bid price or a buy it now price that seems too good to be true - it often is. Check your local store prices and compare that to the item's price PLUS the shipping charges. You will often find that you get a better deal in your local establishment.

3. Make sure that the seller accepts PayPal or some equivalent form of anonymous payment. This is a biggie! We can't protect our financial information too much in this day and age.

4. If you have questions, e-mail the seller prior to committing yourself to a purchase. All reliable sellers are more than happy to help you decide if it is the right item for you or not. Remember, they're in the business of happy customers, too.

5. Lastly, if you've bid/won/purchased an item on Ebay, sent payment, and have not received any response from the seller by means of either receiving the item or receiving e-mail from them regarding the item, CONTACT THEM! Don't just sit on your haunches and wait. A lot of the sellers have lots of business and sometimes just plain get behind on things. If this is the case, they will be more than happy to hear from you and will promptly get to your order. If they do not respond within a few days, you can contact Ebay directly to resolve your dispute.

Good luck, and happy Ebay-ing!

Learn more about this author, Bella Grant.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about eBay do's and don'ts?
We want to hear your view. Write now!