I am going to make this just as simple for you as possible. This is intended for new eBayers who may need just a little guidance or reassurance in knowing that eBay is a great place to buy things online.  Most sellers are good business people and really care about what they sell but there are always exceptions and all it takes is one bad apple so.....

1) READ THE AUCTION CAREFULLY and NEVER ASSUME ANYTHING!

2) ASK QUESTIONS BEFORE BIDDING and if you don't get an answer back then DON'T BID!

3) CHECK FEEDBACKS. CHECK FEEDBACKS. CHECK FEEDBACKS. It's ok though if a seller with 10000 feedbacks has a few negatives or neutrals. It's to be expected with that many feedbacks to have had  a few problems. That does not mean that they are not an honest seller.  

4) CHECK SHIPPING FEES, SHIP TO DESTINATIONS, SELLERS TERMS AND PAYMENT METHODS ACCEPTED. Some sellers will set the price of an item low but will make it up with excessive shipping and handling charges. You're not getting a deal if you buy something for a penny that has a $20.00 shipping fee tacked on that actually can be mailed in an evelope for the price of a postage stamp. BE CAREFUL and be sure and check what the shipping fees are. If it's not listed then go back to step 2 and ASK BEFORE YOU BID!

5) CHECK IF THE SELLER HAS A RETURN POLICY. Not all sellers will accept returns and some only offer credit for a future purchase. Most sellers will NOT refund shipping costs.

6) IF YOU DO HAVE A PROBLEM CONTACT THE SELLER ASAP TO SEE WHAT CAN BE WORKED OUT.

7) BE SURE AND LEAVE FEEDBACK AFTER COMPLETING THE TRANSACTION. A lot of sellers will not leave feedback for the buyer first.

I hope this helps a little. I have been on eBay a long time and have made a few purchases and have sold many items with very few problems. With anything new, don't be afraid just be cautious. READ, ask questions and you'll be fine and last but not least

HAVE FUN AND HAPPY EBAYING!