Seven Smart Ways to Avoid Being Ripped Off on eBay
While eBay can be a safe and secure way to trade items be aware of signs that indicate the seller or item is not as it seems. Just like the traditional market, eBay has the potential of attracting shady sellers looking to make a quick buck at your expense. Here are seven savvy ways to avoid being ripped off on eBay.
First, you should be aware of an abnormally low “buy it now” prices. If the item is priced well below fair market price, there is probably a good reason for it. Investigate the quality of these items before making a bid to make sure it’s not a scam. While shopping on eBay can lead you to some great deals, if it seems a little too good to be true it probably is.
Also, avoid bidding on auctions that don’t exist in the traditional market. This includes software items that were never released or movies that are still in the theatre. If the item does not exist in the regular market, the seller probably does not possess it. If they do, it’s most likely a fraud or illegal, either way you should not bid on the item.
If the seller is requesting unusual or unorthodox payment methods, then that should be a red flag that this auction is not for you. Steer clear of eBay traders who require payment methods that are untraceable, such as wire transfers or ask for your bank account information. PayPal has become the standard method of making payments on eBay. Buyers should look for auctions that utilize PayPal or money orders as preferred methods of payments. Under no circumstance should a buyer give out personal account information. Furthermore, making all your payments electronically will increase the chances that you can get your money back if something goes wrong.
Another way to avoid being ripped off is to do all your transactions through eBay. Potential buyers should be cautious of auctions that contain the phrase “contact me before bidding”. These sellers try to convince buyers to purchase the item directly from them to avoid eBay fees. However, bypassing eBay means there will be no record of your transaction. This means the seller has nothing stopping them from taking your money and then disappearing.
Another red flag that should warn you not to bid on an item is contradictory information in the listing. Avoid auctions that describe on item one way and then when you click on the listing the detail describe something else. Pay special attention to size dimensions, model types, and years.
Another helpful tool to avoid being ripped off is to buy from reputable sellers and pay attention to a members feedback score before making a purchase. The higher the score the more positive feedback they have received. If the seller has a low score, they are probably not someone you should make a purchase from.
The seventh tip to avoid being ripped off when buying on eBay is to know the value of the item that you are purchasing. Do some research ahead of time so that you have a good idea what the item would cost if you brought it brand new, that way you know a good deal when you see it. There is no point paying more for an item on eBay than you would pay walking into any retail store
As you gain more experience buying and trading on eBay it will become easy to detect shady auctions and sellers. It is important to trust your instincts and never participate in auctions that you feel uncomfortable with. These tips will help make your eBay shopping experience safe and fun.
Done for today
Don Guindon |
