Avoiding Scams

[FocusedEnergy]

Hi all, I have a favor to ask those who read this: Can someone who is educated on buying from fellow FF members create a write-up regarding secure transactions? I've been reading a lot of scams, and although I may be one of few who need it, it would be extremely helpful to give a how-to on safe buying/selling. Links to different companies who handle these transactions would be good too. Although I'm not a victim, I'm quite concerned about how to avoid scam, should I choose to buy/sell from another member. Thanks.

-MODS: Move please if this doesn't belong in right location, I just used best judgment.-

[loudfocus01]

One thing is to look at the sellers Buy-Sell-Trade Rating under their name.
That usually gives a good indication as to what kind of seller they are.

[fast_ryda]

order with a american express or a credit card that has good fraud pretection.

[GreenEnvy]

A few tips...

I will not purchase unless the person has over 100 posts (has begun establishing himself as a member)
The bst rating is also another good indicator altho not the best since some don't sell very often or have never till that point. (look at my bst, does it mean i'm a bad seller because i've never sold on here before?)
Use an escrow service if possible. the escrow holds the money until you recieve the product and will not release the money until you've inspected and let them know you recieved and inspected. they do track the shipping so its known when recieved and after 3 days of reciept if you dont call the money is released.
If something just doesnt feel right about the deal, back out, no matter how mucyh you may want it.

guess my main concern is those with low post count who come here basically to sell then drop out of sight, as i said, the higher the post count the better.
not everyones a scammer and sometimes problems occur with shipping and life in general.

[stoopidsteve87]

yep yep, biggest thing i look at, as goinloco1 said, is the post count + bst rating. the higher the post count, the more they've been around on the board, the more likely people know of them and maybe some people on here know them personally or have done business with them. the buy-sell-trade rating, good to know that others may have already had good transactions with the user. oh, and ask questions. it never hurts.

didn't know bout the escrow part though...

[FocusRacingAustrali]

I had around 50 post when I started buying parts off here so I guess it all comes down to seller.
Make sure the seller as a good rating.
Have a look around for what the item cost new then see if your getting a fair deal.
The 1st few times how I paid had was with a International money order from my bank so that person can only bank it then I have them if they don't send it.
Paypal is cheaper and faster to send money but, its header to use.

[FocusedEnergy]

This is good information. Any other tactics are welcome and appreciated- not just for myself, but for anyone who may need some good tips from those more experienced.