eBay has been incredible for finding rare items but I've been burned twice — once on a fake Pokemon card and once on a 'mint condition' game that arrived with a cracked case and scratched disc.

What are your tips for safe buying on eBay? How do you spot scammers?

Never buy from a seller with less than 50 feedback. Always check their feedback percentage. Anything below 98% is a red flag.

Ask for detailed photos before bidding on expensive items. If the seller won't provide them, walk away. Also use PayPal for buyer protection — never send a money order.

For Pokemon cards specifically, learn to spot the print quality differences. Fake cards usually have slightly wrong colors and the holo pattern is off. Compare to a known real card.

Sniping (bidding in the last 10 seconds) is the best strategy. Don't show your hand early. Use a sniping service or just be ready at your computer when the auction ends.