So, slickster, you wanna learn some tips for conquering the
auction megasite eBay? If so keep reading as I'll be stating
some obvious and some overlooked tricks to help the amateur
and seasoned eBayer find that next great find.
Tip #1: Spell 'Nintendo' wrong.
To make a good deal sometimes you have to think
like a typical one-time eBay seller. In other words, an idiot.
Sometimes sellers type in the title description too fast and
misspell the listing, such as with the name 'Nintendo'. Some
common misspellings are: Nintedo, Nintend, and
Nitendo. Make sure you turn on the "search description
and title" option too for more results!
It's wise advice to search for general words
of the game title/genre you are looking to bid on as well.
For example instead of 'Super Mario Bros', type in 'Mario
Bros'. Or if time isn't an issue, type something really general
such as 'Mario', but be prepared to sort out listings from
auctions selling things like "Mario Lemieux's underwear".
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Tip #2: Become a Night Owl.
Surfing at night (around 1 - 2 a.m.) and/or clicking "new
auctions" under eBay's NES section displays all of the
newest auctions. This could be perfect for picking up BIN
(Buy It Now) prices. Use your time zone to your advantage.
Remember people actually make a living off of eBay, so there
are times when a good deal comes up... but will you be there
to pick it up?
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Tip #3: Snipe like a Mad Man.
Definitely the most hated and debated eBay tactic,
sniping is essentially waiting till the auction is about to
close and placing a bid when there is less than a minute to
go. Some things you must take into effect, though, is to give
yourself at least a minute then bid. If you have a slow connection
or if the last bidder has put up a higher bid than yours,
you must give yourself time to try again.
Some tips: open your desired auction into three
different browser windows for quick access. Enable cookies
on your browser and remember to log in beforehand to prevent
having to enter your eBay password to confirm the bid.
Never, I repeat, never bid early! You'll end
up paying more than you need!
Scope out your competition! Follow the NES eBay
market for a while, and visit NES messageboards, keeping your
eyes peeled for names that flock to the rare items and always
seem to buy the good stuff for cheap. Follow their bidding
patterns by doing an Advanced Search by the Bidder's
ID. You may uncover a hidden auction that may give you
the opportunity to outbid a seasoned NESer eBay vet!
You can find great deals by waiting for the
right item to come up. Some sellers out there are notorious
for having the rarest of the rare, and here is a quick list
of a few.
