----*ebay?*----

[candid_chick007]

hey guys i was thinking about buying some electronic stuff off of ebay ...like cameras and an ipod video...what are u guys opinions on how safe and smart ebay is? thanks alot
~Candid

 

[intricatic]

For electronics, I would greatly caution against buying used in general.

 

[Macrina]

I've made a few purchases on eBay, and been pleased with the results. I chose sellers with a high number of good ratings.

One of the purchases was electronic -- a card for my old computer, something that is no longer available new -- and I received it still wrapped in its original packaging. An electronics store had it and sent it to me, so I was happy.

 

[Sketcher]

I can get you a good deal on a time machine there.

So many people get screwed on E-Bay I couldn't use it myself or recommned it to anyone.

 

[intricatic]

The reason that you don't want to buy electronics used is because it comes as-is with no warranty. You have no idea what condition it's in, and you have no way of returning it if it's in bad condition. Basically, you get ripped off.

That's a trick used computer stores use when it comes to selling used CD-ROM drives and other peripherals.

 

[Annointed712]

ebay is okay just make sure the person has a good rating

 

[BeautyForAshes]

The only thing electronic I've bought off ebay has been cell phones, my PDA, and an Ipod. I only had one instance where I returned a cell phone that didn't meet my expectation. Here are my tips:

1. Check feedback!

2. For me, when it comes to electronics, I prefer to buy from a person as opposed to some company. At least I know the history (for the most part) unlike a company who's merchandise could be stolen.

3. Do research on the product you plan to buy. Sometimes, once shipping/insurance is added, you really may not be gettingn a good deal. In my opinion, if I can buy it for $50 or less in the store brand new, the auction isn't worth it.

4. Make sure that purchase from someone that has a return policy - just in case it doesn't meet your expectation.

 

[fishstix]

I've bought quite a few electronic items on ebay - mostly obsolete video game cartridges and that sort of thing. Most of the transactions went very well.

As others have said, be sure to check feedback before bidding. Stay away from people who have had considerable negative feedback and from those who haven't been on ebay long enough to get much feedback.

In case of a problem, familiarize yourself with both ebay and paypal's systems for reporting people, and especially with the timeframe that you would have to report things in. Chances are that you won't have to report someone if you are careful about who you buy from, but it's a good idea to at least know how.

Before you bid on something, email the person and ask them about their policy if the item doesn't work when it arrives or if there is some other problem. Some people give full refunds, others do partial refunds, others require you to send the item back, etc. Also, ask the person what shape the item is in, when they last tested it to see if it works, etc. It's best to know before you bid. It's also important to know how much you will be paying for shipping before you bid.

Lastly, make sure that you know how you are going to pay for the item. Paypal, cheque, money order etc. Not every seller accepts every payment method, so be aware of what they will and won't take.

 

[Eric10]

It's perfectly safe as long as you're:
1) buying
2) buying from someone with a high rating.

If you're selling, there is no guarentee of anything. Paypal can screw you like you couldn't imagine. Paypal is a thiefs middle man, and they charge you for being robbed to boot!

 

[~HopeFloats~]

I have bought digi cam, monitor, mp3player and a few other things on ebay all cmaed unused just as they said.

Good Luck!

 

[sherri]

I've bought a few things too and only once had a problem. I just bought a keyboard and it's great (and I bought a guitar there too and it was in virtually perfect nick). Like everyone else said - just make sure you check the feedback.

 

[JPPT1974]

I used to do so
But not as much anymore
Just only if they happen to do with game shows!

 

[candid_chick007]

The reason that you don't want to buy electronics used is because it comes as-is with no warranty. You have no idea what condition it's in, and you have no way of returning it if it's in bad condition. Basically, you get ripped off.

That's a trick used computer stores use when it comes to selling used CD-ROM drives and other peripherals.

yeah my folks were warning about buying used electronics, but do u think its ok to do so if the seller accepts returns?

 

[candid_chick007]

I can get you a good deal on a time machine there.

So many people get screwed on E-Bay I couldn't use it myself or recommned it to anyone.

thats what i was fearing

 

[intricatic]

yeah my folks were warning about buying used electronics, but do u think its ok to do so if the seller accepts returns?

Depends on the conditions of the return.

But yes, if it's reasonable, I'd say go for it.

 

[intricatic]

thats what i was fearing

I can get you a time machine for a better price.

 

[candid_chick007]

Depends on the conditions of the return.

But yes, if it's reasonable, I'd say go for it.

yay!
lol
cool thanks

 

[candid_chick007]

I can get you a time machine for a better price.

hmmm that will come in handy in order to make an easy refund......we'll be in touch