It is part of a frugal lifestyle, but buyer be warned when it comes to the online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist or the scores of smaller websites and apps that have popped up over the last few years. Alongside the good finds, you still hear horror stories of scamming, stalking, and otherwise bad experiences.
Still, there’s something to be said about finding a great deal, especially on high-ticket items like furniture and electronics that tend to be overpriced by retailers. Here are some tips when decided to look for that deal over the super highway.
Tip #1: Make sure the sold sign is not present.
While some online sellers tend to leave the sold products online, Richard’s Collectables, does not.
Tip #2: Move fast.
Once you’ve verified that an item is still available, act quickly. With hundreds of other invisible shoppers, hesitating for even one day can mean losing your chance. Especially true in the world of estate sales.
Tip #3: Online does not equal flea market. Prices are not negotiable.
While a online=business does not have a brick and mortar building, there are still massive costs involved with selling online. Hosting, insurance, city taxes, state taxes, and paying for a developer each month are all part of the package. Those costs have to be covered before the business owner can receive a dime. Never assume that used means over-priced. This costs, while less than new, still need to cover the overall expenses. Richard Collectables prices all of it’s items according to request of the donating family and in line with between 50-60% of the cost of new.
Tip #4: Factor in shipping .
In the eagerness to find a good deal on something you need and want, it’s easy to forget about practical things like shipping. This is especially true when a breakable item and needs to be packed in such a way that assures it’s arrival to you. Shippers, like UPS and Fedex, are blind to the contents. So if you want to have extra protection, as the seller, and be willing to pay for, extra packaging. Even insurance will protect your purchase.
Tip #5: Recognize that this is used.
Yes, you can save a TON of money, finding an item that someone else has previously used. Recognize that, this means it may not be perfect. A scratch or faded color may be in-store. Perfect working, but not perfect appearance.
Tip #6: Check the return policy
Most items in the estate or used space, are going to be sold as is. Although, some small online stores will accept the items back, if you can prove that it is damaged in transport. This is going to require you to take pictures and do some going back and forth to show that the product does not match the pictures online.
