eBay Local Deal Finder

Make sure you’re actually getting a bargain, check to see if the item is as described, has all the parts, functions and most importantly you can’t buy a similar item for less/similar money new!

A great way of comparing prices (especially on 2nd hand products) is by searching for items across the UK or within 250 miles from your address, then scrolling down the page to show only ‘sold listings’. This will then show you similar items that have sold and how much for, if the price is GREEN it generally means the item was sold at that price.

Look for ‘SOLD LISTING’ to get an idea on the prices others are paying for similar items

Anyone can sell on eBay which is great in one sense however it also means that scammers, fraudsters and people selling dodgy items can be found as well. Just be careful, stick with sellers with 97%-100% feedback with at least 20+ feedback score.

You’re picking up something from a strangers house, in a car park or somewhere else! You don’t know who they’re, who they live with etc etc. Always take someone with you, someone you trust failing that always take a charged mobile phone with you and inform someone you trust exactly where you’re going, to meet who and that you will contact them afterwards.

Generally it’s best to stay on the doorstep to do the deal.

Remember private sellers generally won’t have a leg to stand on if they buy something ‘sold as seen’ and then something stops working, breaks etc.

However eBay Buyer Protection may help you by protecting you however they do have restrictions.

Local listing websites like Freecycle, Gumtree and various online groups on Facebook offer listings of items that people just want to get rid of, you might get lucky on those!

A bargain is only a bargain if you’re actually going to use it. Buying things because they’re cheap and then putting them on a shelf or in the garage doesn’t make them a good buy. Think before you bid!

Obviously we find bargains on pretty much most things every month, if you’re not in a mad rush you might find yourself getting a deal or even a glitch on the item you’re looking for.