Tips for Ebay Users...to avoid having to leave negative feedback

I recently had to leave negative feedback for a seller and although according to Ebay policies, I cannot discuss specific transactions here in my Blog, I thought I could provide some tips for other Ebay users that may help prevent problems with their transactions.

Make sure that the item in the photograph is actually the item listed.  If it's a stock photo, always ask for more details or to get photos of that specific item.

Always check the return policy in the auction before you bid, but understand that even if there is no policy listed, neither eBay nor Paypal will force a seller to refund your return shipping charges, even when an item is misrepresented in an auction. 

Always read feedback to find out how well the seller ships.  If they have a history of using boxes that are too small then your item may get damaged. 

When you visit a feedback page look for feedback left for others.  You can tell a lot about  the seller by how they discuss their transactions with other people. 

Be careful when dealing with returns. Only ship to a confirmed Paypal address and not another address, even if a seller asks you to do so and tells you they are out of town.

Don't fall for any bribery related to feedback or blogs. 

 I have 293 completely positive feedback ratings over the past ten years of transactions.  This is the first time I have ever left negative feedback for anyone. 

Thanks,
Adnaw