I've given some tips on bargain hunting and finding those special deals on Ebay. Now, I have my second edition in what I plan to be a series in tips. This one is based on mistakes that I have made. While most have been my fault, there are occassionally some unscrupulous members of our community that you have to watch out for. Here are my thoughts from both a buyer and sellers perspective:

1. Don't get into a bidding war before checking market value - many times bidding on an item becomes a game. however, you don't want to get addicted to just winning items that are way over-priced. sure, its good for the seller. but as a buyer you may end up with something you really just didn't want or couldn't pay that much for. letting the other bidder get something may allow you to purchase for a much better price down the road.

2. Never fail to check shipping calculator and ask questions about shipping prior to bidding -From the sellers perspective I often get requests after I've completed the sale for shipping that I just cannot fulfill. Do not get in a habit of allowing yourself to get bullied by the buyer. You set the terms when you make the listing. Stick to your initial listing. From the buyers perspective - ask the questions before bidding and check that calculator to avoid any disputes.It's not fair to hold up the seller who could have sold it to someone else and already been paid and the item shippped.

3. Let the other party know if there are any potential hold ups - Often times it is hard to make an immediate payment due to the auction ending at odd times or it is hard to ship for the same reason especially on buy it nows. However, stay in contact with the other party and let them know as soon as possible if there is a problem. There is always a way to access the ebay site and email and just be prepared if you are bidding or selling.

4. send an invoice - If the seller doesn't receive one, the buyer may not be aware they won. Not all buyers are notified of a win through an email. As we know emails get lost and if it is sent at an odd time (middle of the night or weekend) they may not get that email or it will shoot down the list. Send an invoice during business hours or when that person bid since they would likely to be on-line at that time. The auction is not really over till you are paid and the item is sent and received.

Hopefully these tips will help you to avoid mistakes I've made and you will be successful in your bids and sales. Till next time.