Getting registered with eBay as either a auction seller or buyer is a very simple process. As a buyer, all you need to do is provide some minimal information such as name, address, e-mail address, and create a user ID and password.

To register as a seller requires some additional steps, primarily focusing on financial matters, though you'll also be expected to agree upon what you can and cannot put up for auction, and the rules and regulations associated with listing or presenting information regarding the items you intend to auction. It almost goes without saying that you'll be expected to conduct your selling affairs in honest matter, in no way misrepresenting the items you will be listing.

What Turns Off A Prospective eBay Bidder Or Buyer?

As an eBay auction seller you've no doubt taken some steps to create listings that draw attention to the items you wish to sell, and put those items in the best possible light. What can be happening when you think you've done everything right, but are getting poor bidding results?

Here are a half dozen things you can do, or not do , guaranteed to keep bidders away:

Don't charge more for shipping and handling than you really need to. If you're selling an item from home, granted it may take a little effort to carefully package it for shipping. Many "handling fees” are absurd anyway. Consider including that fee in the price you'll accept for the item. At least it will be hidden.

Where possible, provide your shipping charge up front. If you can offer free shipping, for small items, by all means say so! Don't make the customer send an e-mail asking for shipping information, and if that happens , respond quickly, or you'll lose a bid.

Prospective bidders want information, not a sales pitch. Don't use all capitals in your listing for emphasis.

That's the Internet equivalent of screaming. We get enough of that from TV commercials. Be careful with font colors as well. Red letters can draw attention. Use too many, and your shouting a warning.

Don't use flashing images in your listings. Have you ever lived near a flashing neon sign? Same effect. Let your words and the image of the item your selling do the speaking for you. Some don't like buying from people who rely on gimmicks.

The image of your item should focus on the item, not on your wife and kids, the cute family dog, or the south wall of your living room. Your image should consist of the item you have up for auction against a suitable background, and without any distracting elements, as much as is possible.

Be very careful about placing any rules or restrictions on the bidder. If you only accept American Express, you'll lose plenty of business. If you demand immediate payment, or demand anything for that matter, bidders will likely stay away. They may want the item you're have up for bid, but would rather not deal with someone they may view as being an unpleasant or controlling individual.

If you follow these simple rules, or avoid doing most of the things that tend to turn people off, you can expect to get some bids, as long as your item is reasonably priced and somewhat in demand.

Discover More eBay Auctions Tools and Secrets in this eBay guide :

eBay Auction Secrets and Tools

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