Sometimes you can get some good buyers and sellers

I have always had good luck on eBay -- although "luck" is frequently a matter of care and preparation.

I never bid on anything without first checking feedback of the seller. If he has 1000+ feedbacks at better than 99% positive, then I bid with confidence.

Sometimes I'll contact the seller by email before bidding, and the quickness and appropriateness of the response is also a good barometer.

I have reached the point where any time I decide to buy a specific item (like a new calculator watch (gotta maintain my geek credentials!) or a three hole punch for the office) I always go to eBay first.

tanstaafl.