Online auctions are generally free for the buyer and seller, though the hosting site will usually assess a small fee for each item sold through their service. The global scope of the World Wide Web provides a huge audience for sellers, as well as a vast array of merchandise for buyers. The auction will run for an allotted amount of time during which registered buyers can place bids. Most sellers and auction services allow credit card payment, which is the preferred payment option, as the buyer can challenge the charge with the credit card company if there are any problems. Like everything, there are downsides to Internet auctions.
Most reports say that the majority of auctions are legitimate.
When there is a problem with a seller, it usually has to do with undelivered or misrepresented merchandise. Some shady sellers have been known to try to drive up the prices of their own items with false bids as well. Sellers have also experienced problems with buyers as well. If you are interested in buying merchandise through an online auction, you should first make an effort to understand the rules and regulations of the auction house you plan to use. There should be detailed instructions and even an interactive auction tutorial at the site.