eBay Review

Online shopping is growing more and more popular as we move further into a computer based culture. It is far more convenient to shop online for items now than it has ever been.

A site that has remained at the top of the online shopping world is "eBay". eBay is an online shopping site where you can by goods from both manufacturers and licensed sellers. The most popular ways to buy are in an auction or the "buy it now" option.

Both of these options have their pros and cons. For instance, the "buy it now" option allows you to skip the auction line and purchase the item before the price goes over that amount (you can also make the seller an offer that they reserve the right to turn down). "Buy it now" also gives you the option to hold the item with a commitment to buy, giving you time to get the money needed in order to finish the purchase.

Bidding on an auction is also a great feature on the eBay site. Participating in the auction, unlike other popular sites such as "beezids," does not charge you for bids on an item you hope to buy. You have zero risk, or cost, if you don't win. The best part about the auction option is that you get to name your price. If you are in an auction solo then the price you initially set will be the price you pay.

With money as tight as it's been these last couple years, finding ways to save on everyday purchases is the way to go. It also comes in handy for us college students. On eBay, textbooks are sold for a fraction of their shelf price. You can have the books sent to your home weeks before class even starts.

Unfortunately there are always risks with shopping online. You have to contend with scammers selling fake merchandise, identity thieves, and people who simply want to make things difficult. eBay counters theses risks with a system called "eBay buyer protection." This allows you to shop without having to worry about those things.

The buyer protection program makes it so no seller can sell items without being registered on the site. eBay takes responsibility for their actions if someone manages to slip through the cracks by issuing a full refund to shoppers when there is a discrepancy in a transition.

Overall, eBay is a safe and convenient shopping site that gives you the chance to shop your own way.