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During the Auction: Identifying Questionable Auctions

It's easy to get sucked into a sale, especially one that will add a real jewel to your collection. Sure, the picture isn't great, and the description is half-cocked, but you've got to have it. Wait--hit the brakes! Before you start your buying spree, review our guidelines for spotting questionable auctions. They'll help you look at the auctions that catch your eye with a critical eye.

What It's Worth to You
As a general rule, it is wise to avoid auctions of items that you are not genuinely interested in or know little about--that is, unless you are willing to do a little research and find out if the item is under- or overvalued.

Low Rating or Basher
It's also a good idea to check a seller's feedback rating before you bid. If the seller has a spotty record--i.e, more than 1 or 2 negative posts for every 20--there is reason for concern. Also, investigate if the seller is prone to retaliate against buyers who have given negative feedback. It's better not to do business with a loose cannon who might sully your reputation after a sale.

High Prices, Low Ratings
If you are thinking of buying a big-ticket item, see if the seller's feedback or user rating measures up. If the seller has no feedback or negative feedback, you might want to contact him or her. Send a friendly email, inquiring about the item, the seller's sales policy (handling, shipping, and insurance fees), and his or her history on the service. Also, investigate if the seller is selling several expensive items concurrently. This will help you determine if the seller is legitimate.

Counterfeit and Illegal
Without question, avoid auctions containing items that are illegal or in violation of the auction site's terms of service. If you see "Hurry--will be banned from eBay," you know to steer clear. Don't implicate yourself with the illegal item and risk being penalized by the service.

Couldn't Be Bothered:
It's common to send sellers emails with questions about their auctions. If you impress upon them that you are seriously interested in buying the item and they still fail to respond to your inquiries, you may want to think twice about bidding. They may be too busy for customer service, unknowledgeable about the item, or fraudulently describing the item. None of the three possibilities bode well for a successful and happy transaction. Also, take note of sellers who do not update or correct auction descriptions based on your input.

Guilty Before Proven Innocent
As a rule, be wary of auctions burdened by excessive rules, regulations, warnings, or threats against violating a seller's sales policies. In general, question listings that have more terms than description, or more negative language than positive. Keep an eye out for bold and/or capitalized phrases, exclamation points, and verbal threats. Sellers who regularly indulge in such practices may be difficult to deal with from a customer-service standpoint.

Pay One Way
It's wise to stick to auctions with flexible payment policies, meaning those that accept personal checks and credit cards. Definitely avoid auctions that demand payment by cash. In addition, note auctions that require you to pay exclusively by money order or cashier's check, especially on low-priced items. Obtaining a money order or cashier's check requires legwork and costs money. Also, know how long the seller plans to hold your check before delivering your goods. Finally, watch out for overly strict policies, such as "All sales final--no returns!" You want to have an open line of communication with your sellers.

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