If you're looking to save money, eBay can be a great tool. You do need to be careful to not get caught up in an adrenaline fueled bidding war. But if you make smart choices, you really can find some great deals. Here are some tips on how to make the most of it.
1) Buy things you actually need. This might seem like a no-brainer, but there are tons of cool things on eBay and it's easy to make impulse buys. Make a list of common household things you buy, particularly in large quantities. Search for these specific items rather than browsing and being tempted by all sorts of other neat things.
2) Make sure you have room for them. You may be able to get a great price if you buy a large quantity of something, but make sure you have the room to store all of them. Buying 10 cases of toilet paper may get you a great price, but if you don't have anywhere to put it, you're going to be annoyed by your purchase.
3) Buy non-perishables. Don't buy things that will spoil before you use them. Remember, it's only a good deal if you can use all of the product before it becomes unusable.
4) Not everything is a good deal. You might be surprised how many people buy things on eBay for more than what you can buy them for in the store. Don't assume that everything you see is a good price. Do some comparison shopping to make sure you're getting a good deal.
5) If it saves you a trip to the store, it might be a good deal. If you only need a couple things, buying on eBay could save you a trip to the store. This saves you money on not only gas costs, but also prevents you from buying other stuff while you're out or spending money on a latte on your way to the store. Think about your total cost!
Here are some things that I commonly buy on eBay: deodorant, razor blades, kitchen gadgets, body spray, shaving cream, and make-up. What is your favorite eBay find?
