Posted By:
HankronHow much does it matter what a seller usually sells?
Important for me. I'm a generalist and like to buy out of the ordinary items. If someone is offering an unusual and old photograph, I check to see what the person is selling and has sold. If it is apparent that she is a specialist in old photographs, or at least an seller of somewhat related antique items, I am more likely to bid. If the other auctions are beanie babies and cd-roms, I will hesitate. As an online buyer, I am dependent on the sellers experience, comptency and reliablity. This is expressed, though only in part, by the items she regularly deals with, along with feedback and any other relevant info she can describe.
How much does spelling or grammer enter into it?
I'm a terrible speller, and hasn't been a big impediment.
Does a nice presentation help or hurt?
I want a good and detailed decription, including image. Plain text or fancy borderstyles make no difference.
Does having a reserve really deter bidders?
I avoid reserve auctions, as it often is a waste of my time. I do not neccesarily avoid auctions with high minimum bids (with no reserves). If the minimum bid is high but fair, that doesn't bother me.
Other?
I am a repeat buyer from those I have had good experience with. I prefer to buy from people who are obviously experienced and knowledgebale about what they are selling. I will pay a premium to buy something from someone who is an expert, and will bid much lower on an auction by someone who is not. In part, because beginners are usually the worst graders so you conservatively chop of 1/3 from the value. I am a one stop shopper, prefering to buy five things from one person, than five things from five people. I'm a generalist and enjoy following sellers who offer a wide variety of interting items. Often, I will 'while I'm at it' spring for something out of the oridinary.