Online Auction Tips
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(pg. 2)
- Ascertain all the terms of sale that are not otherwise indicated such as delivery, returns, warranties and after sales service. If the items are not delivered on time, immediately inquire why. Determine when title transfers and if title doesn't transfer until delivery is made insist that the shipment is insured by the seller.
- If you are buying collectibles be mindful that since you can't examine the item or have it appraised until after the sale, any claims made about them might not be true. Ensure that all representations made about an item is in writing and get a written description of the item and its value before you pay. Indicate in writing to the seller exactly what you are looking for and what you are expecting. Have the seller confirm in writing that the item that the seller is selling is what you want. This written evidence will assist you in any litigation.
- If possible, pay by cash on delivery (COD). You can then examine the goods to verify that you are getting what you asked. As an alternative, pay by credit card because you can dispute the charges if the goods are misrepresented, defective or not delivered. Be forewarned by anyone requesting cash. As a last resort, pay by cheque made out to the seller, so you can stop payment if necessary. Never pay by money order or bank draft since you will not be able to stop payment or retrieve the payment once you have delivered it.
- As an additional safeguard for costly items use an escrow agent, who acts by forwarding your payment to the seller only after you are satisfied with the items.
- Typical frauds include people who act to bid prices up to inflate the sale price. These individuals are called shills.
- If you encounter a scam or fraud, or simply a seller who you have experienced problems with, let the auction site know so that they can bar the individual from that site. As well notify us at our Complaint Centre and your local Better Business Bureau. All these measures will prevent another buyer from encountering the same problems you experienced.
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(pg. 2)