Learn the real deal before you bid on eBay
• Search smart. For a particular item, do multiple searches using different terms. For example, a pattern name, then a pattern number, or a misspelled variation.
• Make sure the deal's a deal. Check out search engines such as BizRate.com and Shopping.com that scan prices on many Web sites. Also, read item descriptions carefully to make sure what is -- and isn't -- included in the sale.
• Eyeball the seller. Check the seller's feedback score plus the link that estimates the number of transactions he or she has made in the last year. Look for vendors who have completed at least 10 transactions and have positive ratings of 98 percent or higher.
• Check out return policies. Many sellers won't take returns.
• Check shipping costs. Most auctions list these charges. If not, e-mail the seller to find out the full costs, which can be high.
• Time it right. Standard auctions last one to seven days. Wait until the last day of the auction to bid. Try bidding odd figures, like $108.03 instead of $108. You might win by a few cents.
• Beat the competition. "Proxy bidding" enters bids for you so you can stay ahead. You enter the most you're willing to pay, say $120, and press "confirm bid." Whenever someone makes a higher bid, a new bid topping that one is entered for you. Another technique is "sniping," in which you can swoop in with a winning bid during an auction's final moments. Go to www.auctionsniper.com to try a free sample snipe.
• Use protection. Never wire money. Instead, use PayPal with a major credit card. PayPal Buyer Protection covers up to $1,000. EBay's Standard Purchase Protection program covers up to $200 not covered by PayPal, but it costs $25. Both cover only non-delivery or an item that arrives different from the description. With a credit card, you could call your credit-card issuer and try to get the charge plus any interest taken off your bill.
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