The Wonder of eBay

post from My RSS Feed on 20 April 2005 09:35:00 AM. © My RSS Feed

If you want to get great deals on new and used electronics, I suggest taking a look at eBay.

I have been selling various used gadgets of mine via eBay for the past 7 years, and it's been great. If it starts collecting dust, I just sell it, and then I can buy something new! It really isn't frightening at all, it's fun...

Here are some important pointers to follow:

1. Conduct a search by item name (once you find something you want). For example, a "Canon Optura digital camcorder". This way you can compare the models, and pricing offered by various sellers to make sure that you are getting the best deal.

2. Look at a seller's feedback, read their reviews! This is super important, you want to make sure that the seller has a history of not only delivering the product, but also that they are telling the truth about the quality of the product, is it NEW, or REFURBISHED for example. Look for sellers that have a high amount of positive feedbacks.

3. REFURBISHED PRODUCTS are generally sold at a discounted price. This means that they are still in new condition, but that they were returned to the manufacturer and repaired, and are now being sold as new/refurbished. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, in fact I own several items that were sold in this condition and they have worked fine throughout the years. But, it's sort of like cars -- you never know when you MIGHT get a lemon.

4. Consider the Shipping Cost each seller charges and the method of shipping -- prior to making your purchase. This cost varies by seller, and be careful not to get ripped off!

5. Make sure that your item is SHIPPED with INSURANCE. The chances of something happening to your item while in transit (if well packaged) are minimal, but just in case, insurance is a good idea, and it is really inexpensive.