Stealth Home Amusement brings this article to you as a public service. Our thanks to http://www.GameroomAntiques.com who has allowed us to reprint this article.

 Internet Auctions:

 A Buyer's Guide  Page 1 of 3

 Since their first appearance in 1995, Internet auctions have become on of the hottest phenomena of the web.  They offer buyers a "virtual flea market" with an endless range of merchandise from around the world – and they give sellers a "storefront" from which to market everything from sports memorabilia to computer systems to millions of international buyers.

 If you're a buyer, there's a smart way to "do" Internet auctions. Here's how to make sure you get the most from your auction action.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, Internet auction fraud has become a significant problem.  Most consumer complaints center on sellers who:

-        Don't deliver the advertised goods;

-        Deliver something far less valuable than they advertised;

-        Don't deliver in a timely way; or fail to disclose all the relevant information about the product or terms of the sale.

 Quick tips for Buyers

-        Identify the seller and check the seller's feedback rating.

-        So your homework.  Be sure you understand what you're bidding on, its relative value and all terms and conditions of the sale, including the sellers return policies and who pays for shipping.

-        Establish your top price and stick to it.

-        Evaluate your payment options.  If possible, use a credit card.  It offers the most protection if there's a problem.  Consider using an escrow service if the seller doesn't accept credit cards.

 Know the seller.

 Find out who you're dealing with.  Verify the seller's identity before you place your bid, and be wary of sellers who you can't identify.  Some sellers may use a forged e-mail header, which makes follow-up contact close to impossible.  Get a telephone number for the seller and use it to confirm that you have some way other than e-mail to contact the seller.  Check to see how the seller has treated other buyers.  Some auction sites post feedback ratings of sellers based on comments by other buyers.  This may give you some idea of how you'll be treated, but beware of "shill" testimonials. 

 Before you bid, find out what form of payment the seller will accept.  If the seller accepts only cashier's checks or money orders, decide whether you are willing to take the risk of sending your payment before you receive the product.