Since I see so many insanely ridiculous B/S/T ads, I feel that this forum could use a post somewhere along these lines. I've split it up into three parts, which are obviously buying, selling, and trading. Please read them carefully.
First, a bit of background information on myself and why I'm qualified to write such information. I've been trading over the Internet for many years now, and to date have bought, sold, and traded over 120 markers (not including other equipment). I almost always sell or trade within the first few days of posting my item. Follow these tips and you might be able to do the same. Remember, practice makes perfect. It might take a few times to master the art of making a great sale or finding an awesome bargain, but eventually, you'll get it.
Buying on the Internet
The reason people buy things on the Internet is normally first and foremost the price; however, some things really are too good to be true, and you should learn to recognize the indicators of a scam before you lose a lot of money. Some warning signs of a false deal can include:
-Unwillingness to ship using COD, PayPal, or other insured methods of payment.
-Price that is too low to be valid. While some people may offer excuses (a popular one is that they are "leaving for military service and need to get rid of all this gear"), it's usually best to fight your temptation to snag an incredible deal in the interest of saving yourself a lot of heartbreak and money.
-Lack of feedback, feedback that sounds phony, or bad feedback that is not openly displayed for potential buyers.
-Low level of knowledge about product being sold. If the seller has no idea what his AutoClucker with DIE Broomstick does or how it works, he might be trying to make a quick BIG buck off of a sucker buyer.
-Unwillingness to give out e-mail address, instant messenging handle, or other form of Internet communication over a paintball forum or auction website.
-Newly made contact addresses and handles. Fraudulent sellers often register new e-mail address and messenging names specifically for one deal, and then delete or abandon them in exchange for a new set.
Above all else, USE YOUR BRAIN. If something looks fishy, even if it goes against every bargain meter in your head, it's often best just to stay away. Always look for feedback. A good seller will include a link to his feedback if he has sold or traded items more than once or twice before.
Selling on the Internet
Follow the guidelines below and you'll make your sale quickly and efficiently...I can just about guarantee it.
-Always post a price, even if it's estimated. Give people something to work with.
-If you have references, post them in the ad.
-PICTURES are one of the most important parts of a successful sale. If you have them, post 'em, and if you don't have pics, get some.
-Post detailed specifications.
-Type clearly and form coherent sentences.
-Include all relevant information in bold or other font style that will stand out against the normal type.
-Include contact information.
-Try to remember to include a reason for selling, especially if you're the type of person like me who has a new gun or three every week.
-ALWAYS include detailed information and pictures regarding any damages to the marker, aesthetically or performance-wise.
-Know resale value. Angel LCDs, for example, used to go for upwards of $900 used. Now they barely push $700 unless they are rare makes or include many upgrades. Try to price your item at no more than two-thirds of what it's lowest retail price is. For example, if the lowest price you can find for a Spyder Compact is $90, sell a used Compact for NO MORE THAN $60. It is preferable to include other items to sweeten the deal. Don't add so much that you lose a lot of money, but just enough to entice buyers into paying your asking price. Look around on the Internet forums and auction sites and research resale values for the equipment you are trying to sell. Then, try to match or beat those prices. You will sell your items five to six times faster and it will be much easier in the long run.
Trading on the Internet
Third party is the safest, most effective method of trading. However, it is also a tad costly, so always evaluate the other party by checking feedback before deciding on how to ship. Popular methods include:
-Shipping at the same time and exchanging tracking numbers.
-COD (Collect on Delivery; an extra charge but well worth it in regards to peace of mind)
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Third Party (
http://xcipaintball.com) is the safest way to trade markers or equipment because another business receives the goods from both ends, inspects them, and ships them out to the recipients, leaving no chance for anyone to get frauded out of their equipment.
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Thanks for reading; please keep all of this information in mind the next time you go to buy, sell or trade online. It could save---or make---you a lot of money.
Mike
Linear Mode
