By Natalie Bochenski

The world’s largest online trading community, eBay remains the patron saint of online bargain-hunters, although these days it’s far more than just an auction site. People make their living from online stores, selling and re-selling brand new, second hand and vintage items. You can order anything from computers to custom-made wedding dresses, cars to collectibles, and the “Buy it Now” function allows you to click and purchase for immediate gratification.

Other auction sites include Oztion, now second only to eBay in Australia. The trusty Trading Post is also online, adding auctions to its existing model of classifieds. Gray’s Online is the internet arm of the Australian auctioneering and asset management company. It offers a wide range of consumer and industrial goods for auction, and tends to work well for those looking to purchase bulk lots.

The key to successful auction bidding is to not get carried away with the thrill of the chase. You could wind up shelling out more than you budgeted for that special edition Star Wars light sabre just because you don’t want hotbidder66 to get his grubby hands on it. Most sites have an auto-bidding function, where you can set the maximum price you’re willing to pay, and the site will bid for you in increments. Once it goes over your limit, it’s up to you whether you keep pursuing the item. It also saves you having to stay up until 3am for the frantic final minutes of an overseas-based auction. Look carefully for reserve or “Buy it Now” prices.

This is what the seller expects as a minimum, or what they’re willing to take straightaway. If it works with your budget, consider ditching the auction process. Remember, there’s a flipside to the auction bargain – there could be a last minute rush, forcing the price up.

The “let the buyer beware” principle holds fast for online shopping. Auction sites generally provide photos and descriptions of the objects for sale, but if they’re big ticket items like electronics, whitegoods and furniture (not to mention vehicles!) make sure you double-check all specifications to ensure the product will be right for you, and work with your existing equipment and electrical outlets.

Your behaviour as a buyer is also recorded on auction sites, so don’t bid unless you plan to follow through. Don’t create bad blood with sellers, but make sure you report any incidents of incorrect item description, postage costs or delivery problems.

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