This site is all about learning how to purchase from eBay and save money in your budget doing it. Before making a bid on an auction, research exactly what you’re bidding on, know who the seller is, and understand how eBay and PayPal can protect you in case it of trouble.
Research your item before you bid…

• Look in your local market and determine how much the item is in your area.
• Be sure to include deliver charges in your bid amount. Does the seller include insurance? If the item is expensive – this would be a wise investment.
• Read the auction details carefully to determine exactly what you are bidding on.
• If you’re not sure what is being offered – contact the seller by clicking on the “ask seller a question” link to get the specific answers you need before you bid.
• Never pay for your winning auctions through instant cash wire services like Western Union or Money Gram. These payments are not covered under eBay buyer protection. PayPal is the safest choice for payments and offers great buyer protection.
• Always purchase through eBay using a bid, buy it now, or best offer button. Purchases made by arrangement outside of eBay are not covered by buyer protection programs either.

Know who the seller is before you bid…

• Is this someone you want to do business with? What is the feedback rating? Is it positive? How many transactions have they completed as a seller?
• What are some of the negative comments? Was it the seller’s fault or the buyers? Sometimes buyer’s can be unreasonable in their expectations.
• What are the positive comments? Do you see a consistent pattern of good seller practices? Does this sound like someone you want to deal with?
• What are the policies of the auction? Are there any special terms and conditions you need to be aware? Do they offer a full money return?

Problems can happen but eBay and PayPal have built-in protection to help you…

• eBay wants you to have a safe and secure transaction. They have developed lots of tips and information for you.
• Visit the eBay Security & Resolution Center to learn how to protect your rights and use the eBay claim tools.
• PayPal offers buyer protection on purchases up to $2,000, sellers do not see your financial information, and you’ll receive 100% protection against unauthorized payments from your account.