Introduction to Online Auctions
- otherwise known as "For All the Ebay Virgins Out There"

Most people have heard of Ebay and online auctions. It's hard not to when even the starfish in the animated movie 'Nemo' is declaring that she was purchased from the world famous website.

And most people have tried it. But I am still surprised to come across Ebay Virgins. Yes, folks, that is the term. An Ebay Virgin is a person who has never placed a bid on Ebay. This probably means that they have never used any online auction site as Ebay, being the best known, is usually the first one people try. Personally I liked Yahoo Auctions better but had to divert to Ebay when Yahoo closed their UK auction branch. So sad.

Anyway, back to the virgins.

I'm not saying that you haven't lived until you've tried an online auction, but it certain is fun! You can get great bargains, find interesting things, lose tons of money, end up with crap, all kinds of stuff. It all depends on how you go about it.

So here's an online auction addict's introduction to online auctions for online auction virgins (I'll figure out a way to shorten that later).

• Have a good look around. You aren't going to sleep with the first person you see so don't bid on the first item that looks interesting. Take your time, really look at how types of items are priced, note the differences in the traders' and casual sellers' pricing and get a good feel of how it all works.
• Don't feel pressured. It's ok to say no. In fact, it's good to say no if you're not 100% sure. Do not bid until you feel it's right.
• Read the online auction site's how to tips, safe buying information and anything else that you feel might help you grab a bargain and avoid problems.
• Read the auction descriptions very carefully, check the sellers' feedback and ask questions if you're not sure about anything, no matter how small or trivial it might seem.
• Don't cheapen yourself by getting into bidding wars. First rule of online auctions is: Decide your maximum bid and stick to it!
• Be committed. If you bid, you buy. That's that. So don't say yes unless you mean it.
• Buy a few tiny, inexpensive things. I know you want the £50 Faith boots but right now we're talking about baby steps. By bidding on two or three £1 or £2 items you will get a better idea of how it works. Consider it foreplay.
• Be sure to leave and get feedback. You're a newby, you have no rep. So sellers are wary of you. When you receive the little, cheap things you've bought leave positive feedback for the seller (if the experience was good, of course) and make sure they do the same for you. You need to get your numbers up so people will take you seriously.
• Gradually increase the amount you allow yourself to spend. Second base is allowed once you're sure you enjoyed first. But don't move to third until you are absolutely certain that you're ready.
• Third base - the expensive buy. Triple check the description, scrutinize the seller's feedback and just walk away if you are not convinced. No one can force you to buy.
• Always stick to the budget. Online auctions are great fun as long as you are getting bargains and not spending your life savings. Do not overspend and don't buy rubbish just because it's on an auction.
• Finally, enjoy yourself. Have a great time. And be sure to brag about it!