[jyl]

I've been using eBay since it started (1995? something like that). I recall I and other users of the Usenet dot-marketplace groups complained a lot about eBay at first, for inflating prices. But I used it, just the same.

Not a heavy user, maybe 30 transactions in 8(?) years. Almost all buys.

Have had 1 somewhat bad experience - bought a car audio head unit and it arrived poorly packaged with a missing button. No harm in the end as the unit worked fine and a new button cost me a buck. Otherwise, my experiences have all been good.

My rules:
- I don't buy anything terribly expensive. I think $1000 has been my max so far and that was only once - normally it's like $50-$250.
- I don't buy anything when "condition" is subjective, unless the only subjective aspect is cosmetic and there are tons of detailed pics. I.e. a computer, camera or watch is OK since they either work or not and you can usually get pics that show the cosmetics.
- I stick to sellers who have a lot of feedback and whose feedback is damn near 100% positive.
- I send an email with questions during the auction, even if I don't have any questions. If the seller doesn't reply promptly, I don't bid. I figure he's not going to be responsive after the auction either.
- I make sure the method and cost of shipping, and responsibility of loss in transit, is clear. I use UPS or FDX whenever possible, for tracking.
- I use PayPal for the supposed "protection".
- I would never buy a car on eBay. But I'd watch the auction and contact the seller after it doesn't sell . . .
- Lately, I've been using craigslist more.