When Shouldn't You Buy from an Online Auction

Whilst I hate saying this, there are probably some things that are better to purchase from a High Street Shop or Etailer.

I am an experienced online buyer, I love online auctions and I generally trust the sellers. But there are still times when I choose to buy from an etailers or (wait for it...) a high street shop. Yes, you know, the real ones where you have to actually walk in and physically take your credit card out of your wallet and, shock horror, carry a bag!

Whilst I absolutely hate the idea, there are times when it's better to use a more conventional route to purchase. These times are:

• When you need a guarantee: Not all auction sellers can offer a guarantee. And if they can, it's hard to be positive that they will stick to it. I am not trying to say that buying from online auction sellers isn't safe but if you need a 1 year guarantee on an item you might be better off going the conventional route.
• When you need to be able to return the item: Most auction sellers will not allow returns unless the item is faulty or differs significantly from the description. I have no problem with this. As an online auction seller I totally understand the reasons behind this. However, as a buyer I know that sometimes you just don't like it and want to take it back. If this is likely to be case then choose a shop or etailer that offers a no quibble returns policy.
• When you're buying a gift for someone else: I have bought lots of gifts from online auctions but if you're not sure the recipient is going to like the item or that it will be the right size/colour/shape then you will have a problem. Again, it's the returns issue. If there is any possibility that it might not be 100% right then you are probably better off buying it from somewhere where the recipient can easily trade it in. Marks and Spencers and Next are pros at this with special counters set up in some stores for returns without receipts. Online auction sellers however are less likely to be happy about this sort of thing.
• When the item requires support: Some items such as electronics and tools may require support or training. In these cases it is probably better to spend a bit more with a conventional shop in order to be sure of receiving the required help. Otherwise you might end up with a very expensive bargain that you never figure out how to use!

Other than the above, online auctions are definitely the place to buy!

Happy Shopping.