Congratulations on your decision to join the millions of people that have found great bargains by bidding at online auctions! It's like being at the world's largest flea market, only better, because you don't even have to leave home. But now that you've decided to jump into the fun, you may want some help on how to do it. Read these free tips before you place your first bid. Online Auction Basics All online auction sites require that you register with their sites before you can bid. You'll need to provide your email address along with your name and mailing address. Some sites require potential bidders to provide a credit card number in advance. Like any type of auction, there will only be one winner. So if you really want a specific item, maximize your chances by bidding the most that you're willing to pay. Keep in mind that if you do win, you're obligated to pay your winning bid amount plus the amount the seller specified as the shipping charge. Typically the seller will send the winner an email with an invoice for the total amount due. Once you pay in full the seller is obligated to ship your item. Depending on the online auction site and the specific seller, you might be able to pay several ways. Credit cards, online payment services, personal checks, cashier's checks and money orders are the most common payment methods, but before you bid, make sure you read the seller's and the online auction site's payment policies to see which types of payments are accepted. Credit card payments offer buyers the most consumer protections. Protect Yourself Before You Bid Check the seller's feedback if the online auction site has that feature - many do. If previous bidders have complained about the seller, be sensible and don't bid. Send the seller an email asking about their item. If you receive a quick, polite and responsive reply it's a good sign that you have a good seller. If you don't get an acceptable reply, don't bid. Find out how and when the seller wants to be paid if you win. Some sellers may require cash payments while you want to use a credit card. Don't bid if the seller doesn't take your preferred payment method. Check the seller's return policy. Hopefully you won't need it, but you never know. Read the description thoroughly and carefully examine any pictures. Print out the item's description (including any pictures) if you bid, just in case you need it later. Identify Any Hidden Costs Before You Bid Some hidden costs may make the item you want not be worth it. For example, check the seller's shipping charge. If it seems way too expensive, either don't bid or before you do, ask the seller if the item can be shipped by a less-expensive method. Some payment methods cost the buyer money, adding to the cost. Examples are many money orders, cashier's checks and some online payment services. Ask yourself do you really want to pay this way if it increases the overall price. Now Enjoy Yourself! Now that you know the basics, go out and enjoy yourself. You'll be sure to find some bargains, so have fun!
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