[jhun1976]

I totally agree with checking the feedbacks since that is the number one thing I check before even considering bidding but flooding the buyer with e-mails can be pretty annoying. I rather suggest that ask all your questions in a single e-mail and send it. Don't blame someone for getting annoyed if what you are doing is annoying. Also, ask only questions that are not in the ad.

Guitars bought from private sellers are not covered with warranty since you need a receipt from a Gibson dealer to file a claim.

Originally Posted by ptate

Well,

I've bought a few things, both international and national, and have managed to work out a few safety tips. If anyone else has any, maybe this is the place to posts them?

Here's mine:

1. Check feedback carefully and look at the itIems sold/bought. Anyone with hidden feedback avoid!

2. Check the location and determine whether there are any issues with you getting your money back if it all goes "tits-up". China is a long way away....!

3. Check the item description is full, complete and factual (no bullsh*t!, i.e. " it's the best guitar I own"- why are they selling it then?).

4. Don't rush into it. There are plenty more (generally!). E-mail the seller like mad. I do it all the time. If they lose their temper with me asking questions, why would I want to buy from them and what have they to hide?

5. Ask if you can pick it up. If it's a fraud, they'll try to make some excuse (see my other thread). I've avoided many scams with this ruse. Give it a try, you meet some cool folks as well.

6. Don't let bidding fever get you. We've all seen examples of crap making large amounts of cash because a couple of bidders got carried away. Don't let it be you.

7. NEVER EVER overide your gut feeling. If it feels wrong, don't bother.

These are just a few of my tips....Any more.