As I write this, in April 2009, I am approaching retirement. Retirement will have an obvious effect on my eBay activities. For the most part, I have been a buyer but I have sold a few items. I may sell more after retirement.

My main purpose is to give an idea of my views on buying and selling on eBay.

If I am selling, my main idea is to give as full and truthful description of the goods as possible. Once purchased, my aim is to despatch the goods by whatever means have been offered/selected within 2 days, subject to weekends, public holidays and, whilst working, my work commitments. Where a greater timescale is necessary, I expect to contact the buyer to explain the situation.

If I am buying, I generally expect the seller to despatch within 5 days, and I would actually hope to receive within 5 days. In appropriate circumstances, I may send the seller an enquiry after 5 days. At 10 days without delivery or acceptable communication, I would normally open a PayPal dispute in order to "freeze" the money and persuade the seller to communicate. Sellers who demonstrate good intentions and goodwill can expect a "Let's work together" response. In other cases, the response will be appropriate to the seller's attitude.

PayPal disputes will be escalated to claims at 15 days.