Ebay Auctions...Worth a Look?
Of course it is! Who hasn't heard of Ebay? Ebay auctions can be fun and informative. We are not going to try and teach you how to use Ebay; they do that very well! Instead, we'll try an offer you some ideas on how to use this wildly popular auction site to your benefit. (and maybe pick up a good deal or two!) (For some general auction advice, check out these links- antique auctions and public auctions) Information, Information, Information...The amount of information on Ebay is nearly endless. Information is the key word here! Besides having fun bidding on a rapidly changing inventory, what should you concentrate your efforts on?Information! Use Ebay auctions to learn more about the items that you are interested in buying and collecting. Study up! Read the item descriptions. Ask the seller's questions! Check back often! Comparison Shop!Comparison shop! Let's say that you found an old map of Maine in an antique shop one day, dated 1926! Perhaps, it was priced a little high, but you're not sure! Compare your item to a similar item, on one of the many Ebay auctions.Search for maps, old maps, or perhaps, vintage maps. Of course, you may not find an exact match! However, chances are, you'll find something similar that you can use as a comparison. Contact the seller if you have a question. Most seller's will respond quickly! Ebay bidding...
Keep a close eye on the item you are watching! Who is bidding against who? Is it a first time bidder, or an experienced bidder? Watch their bids! Where did they drop out? That may give you a clue as to how valuable the item really is! Bid wisely! By that, we mean make a bid that you are comfortable with, and stick to it. Don't get caught up in a bidding war at the last minute, unless it is a "must-have" item! Even then, be careful!
Unique "One-of-a-Kind' Items!Ephemera items, (paper collectibles) that are sold at auction are often one of a kind. But, the seller may have many similar items to sell! (old maps, for instance!) Check back often for those similar items, maybe even from the same seller!There is usually a very decent selection of ephemera to choose from and bid on. It is not uncommon for the seller to combine many miscellaneous paper goods into one auction listing. This is a good way to pick up a nice variety, all with one winning bid!
Random Notes...One must assume that the seller is accurate in their description of the listed item. However, if you have a question about a certain item, make sure to ask the seller about it, before bidding! This is a great place to find similar items to those that you found in your attic. But keep in mind one very important fact. You may or may not receive the same amount for your item! Prices will vary based on demand and sometimes, luck. Don't be disappointed if your item doesn't bring in the same amount as another similar item.
Use Ebay to your advantage! Comparison shop! Check prices! Research your like item! And, if your lucky, buy that one of a kind paper collectible! One warning though; bidding can be addictive! Use caution and your better judgement when bidding! Have fun! Return from Ebay Auctions to Collecting Memories |
