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Buying Basics
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Buying Basics

This guide explains how to buy items on eBay sites around the world. You can follow the instructions to learn how to buy your favorite items on eBay.com, the world’s largest online marketplace.
 
 
 
1. Register
 

In order to bid or buy you need to register on eBay. It's easy and free!

Simply click on the Register link on the homepage and complete the registration form.



Once you've completed the form you will receive a confirmation email from eBay to the email address you submitted during the registration process. Simply follow the instructions on the email to complete your registration.

Click here to register.

 
 
 
2. Find what you're looking for
 

There are two ways to find what you're looking for on eBay:


Browse categories: If you want to see what eBay has to offer, browse the categories listed on the Homepage. Click on the category you are interested in or select the Buy button on the navigation bar to display the full category list.


Search by Keyword: If you're looking for something specific, the simplest way to find it is to Search. Type keywords into the search box that best describe what you are looking for or advanced search link for more options.

 
 
3. Review the item and seller
 
   Make sure you know what you are buying

Once you find an item that interests you, click on it to view details. Read the item description completely, checking for: item details (size, colour, etc), accepted payment methods, postage costs and return policy. If you still have a question, contact the seller directly.

   Get to know the seller

Check the seller's eBay reputation by clicking on the Feedback rating (the number in brackets) beside the seller's User ID. Click to read what other buyers have said about the seller's reliability, product quality and level of service.


 
 
 
4. Place a bid or buy instantly
 

Experience the thrill of placing the winning bid on an auction-style item, or if you know what you want to pay and you want it quickly look for items that offer Buy It Now.

Place A Bid: Enter the highest price you are prepared to pay for the item and eBay's proxy bidding system will bid on your behalf, only as much as is needed for you to stay the highest bidder.


Buy It Now: If you see Buy It Now on a listing, you can buy the item instantly at that price stated by the seller. There's no bidding involved!
 
 
 
5. Paying for your item and leaving feedback
 

Check after the auction is over to see if you have won the item. If you have won the item, either contact to the seller or check the seller's listing or email invoice to find out what the preferred payment method is, and where you should send your payment. The seller will only send the item to you once they have received payment, so ensure that you pay quickly.

Once the item arrives, check it thoroughly to make sure it fits the description and has arrived in good condition. If you are pleased with your purchase, leave the Seller Feedback and encourage them to do the same for you.

Now you've learned the basics of buying you're ready to start discovering the great deals available.

 

 
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