I am a new user to Ebay and was very overwhelmed ,at first, when I started to look for computers, printers, and accessories!  Here are some of the things that I learned that has made my new experience with Ebay fun, exciting, almost fearless, and money-saving.

• Spend A LOT of time, at the beginning, just looking.  There is so much to see and so many options that I found it was best for this first-timer to just window shop.  You see what you think is a great deal so you jump in head first with your bid and may miss many other better deals.  At this point it is too late because you have already committed your bid and you may feel buyer's remorse because you missed out on something you found later that may have been more of what you were really looking for. Compare different sellers!  There are many of them out there and they all have something great and different to offer.
• Pretend bid.  When saying this I mean, watch a few of your favorite items, in the Watching section My Ebay, for a time and write down your pretend bid on a piece of paper next to your computer to see how the auction goes.  Track your pretend bid.  This way you aren't locked into a bid contract and it won't be so scary the first time you go for the real thing.
• Pay close attention to seller's ratings.  This will help you to feel confident that you are purchasing from an honest person just like you that wants an enjoyable experience from Ebay.
• Compare different seller's shipping and handling charges.  They vary greatly and can make the difference between a good deal and a great bargain!
• Read other Ebay User's Guides!  Other user's are a wealth of information.  Remember...they were once exactly where we are right now!  We all have to start somewhere.
• Don't be afraid to ask the seller questions about the items that they are auctioning or selling.  You'll find that they are very helpful and usually don't have a problem assisting you with more information.
• Start out slow and learn from your experiences.  I found an item that was well within my meager budget and placed a bid that I could afford and would enjoy winning.  I did not want to be stressed out by spending too much on that special something and then worry about paying my electric bill!
• Follow the old saying;  If at first you don't succeed, try, try again!  Don't feel too bad that you didn't win.  Chances are that you'll find another special something to bid on that will be just as great.
• And last, but definitely not least................GO FOR IT!  Place your bid on that special item that you just can't do without and really want.  It's fun and very rewarding when you win your bid.

I hope this helps other first-timers like me.  I have almost become addicted to the fun and excitement an auction creates.  And I can shop without the hubby getting too anxious about my spending.

Also, when you win your bid, make sure that you get your payment taken care of promptly.  This way, not only is the experience fun for you, as the buyer, but it is fun for the seller, as well. 

Have fun and enjoy your time at the auctions!

Chanda