I have been a seller of Original Paintings since 1999 on EBAY. During that time many buyers have ask the same questions, that I want to address here. I am also a collector, shopping on EBAY or in the real world antiques and art environment I have learned to avoid a few pitfalls by following the following guidelines. I hope they will help you as well. 1. Always buy what you like! Don't buy something because you think it will bring so much more in the near future. It may or it may not. In the meantime you have to live with it. So buy what you like. 2. Don't believe everything that you read about a piece of art/painting! First read how much of the information provided is factual and can be backed up. How much is "hype" unspecific claims that can not be substantiated. If a work is supposed to be worth thousands of dollars ask yourself why would anyone sell it for pennies. Online or in the real world, if it sounds to good to be true it usually is. If it's all hype avoid. If claims about an object, art, painting can not be substantiated, avoid. 3. Always learn as much as you can about a seller. If a seller seems to have multiple identities and does not respond to questions, avoid. 4. Ask questions. The way your questions are beeing answered, the timeliness and professionalism will tell you something about the seller. After all after you purchase you want to be sure you will have good communications. 5. If you want to buy ORIGINAL art and look in the PAINTINGS category, make sure you read the description carefully. Some sellers offer "PRINTS" in the Original Paintings category. Avoid learning the hard way that a print not a real painting makes. Read and ask before buying. Look for close up pictures of items, they help to determine if there is actual texture. Even in the real world, sometimes a high quality print may look like a painting. Touch and get close. These few simple steps will help you to a more successful buying and collecting experience.