Winning eBay Auctions: A Sniper's Strategy
Ever found yourself in a bidding war on eBay, only to be outbid at the very last second? Or worse yet, you planned on placing a last second bid but you got distracted and missed bidding entirely? Although its a rite of passage for collectors to lose out a card they really wanted this way, we're here to help you. I present to you, sniping.
Sniping is a strategic bidding strategy where you place one bid, the max you're willing to spend on the card, in the final seconds of the auction.
Sniping reduces the chance for others to increase their bid before the auction expires and increases your chances for success. In this post, we'll explore how to execute the snipe method both manually on eBay and by using a specialized service like Gixen, to ensure you emerge victorious in your next auction battle.
DIY Sniping on eBay
Sniping on eBay manually is all about timing. Here's how to perfect your sniping skills using the tools available to any buyer:
1. Preparation
First off, find the card you're targeting and add it to your watchlist. Note down the auction's end time and assess whether you'll be available. Clear out your schedule if the card is important enough to you.
2. Set Your Maximum Bid
Decide the maximum amount you're willing to pay for the item. This ensures you don't get caught in the heat of the moment and overbid. Write this number down so you don't forget.
3. Pre-Load Your Bid
With about a minute remaining in the auction, click to "Place Bid". You'll see the current bid amount, how many bids have been placed, and the time remaining in the auction. Key in your max bid amount, but do not confirm the bid yet. The key to sniping manually is to wait until there are about 3-5 seconds left in the auction.
4. Place Your Bid
With 3-5 seconds left in the auction, hit "Confirm bid" to place your bid. If you've timed it right, this will give you your best chance of winning.
Using Gixen: The Snipe Service That Bids For You
For those who prefer a more hands-off approach or can't be online at the auction's end, a snipe service like Gixen is a game-changer. Gixen is a free eBay Auction Sniper Service that conducts automatic bidding for you.
1. Sign Up and Connect Your eBay Account
To get started with Gixen, create an account and link it to your eBay account. This allows Gixen to place bids on your behalf. Note that you will need to authorize Gixen on eBay to be able to bid on your behalf, but you do not need to disclose your eBay log in credentials to Gixen.
2. Identify the eBay Item Number for the Auction
Gixen uses the eBay item number to identify which auction you'd like to place a bid on. On both the eBay desktop and mobile app, the item number is at the top of the "About this item" section of the listing.
3. Add New Snipe on Gixen
Enter the eBay item number and your max bid in Gixen to set up your snipe. Review the bid after it appears to confirm you have entered the right number and right bid amount.
4. Let Gixen Do Its Magic
Gixen waits until the last few seconds of the auction to place your bid, following the principles of sniping without requiring you to be present.
FAQs
Q: Is sniping allowed on eBay?
A: Yes, eBay allows sniping, as bids placed before the auction ends are considered legitimate, regardless of timing.
Q: Can sniping services guarantee wins?
A: While services like Gixen improve your chances, no method can guarantee a win.
Q: Isn't eBay already using proxy bidding? Why don't I just submit my maximum bid to eBay?
A: By submitting your max bid to eBay early on, you are providing valuable information to other potential bidders and potentially undermining your chances of winning. Shill bidders may look for auctions where early bids are placed to juice up auctions. Using the sniping approach or a sniping service reduces both these risks.
Snipe Your Way to Victory
Whether you choose to snipe manually or enlist the help of a service like Gixen, mastering the art of sniping can transform your success on eBay. By waiting until the last moment to bid, you minimize competition and increase your chances of snagging that must-have card at the price you're willing to pay. Happy bidding, and may your sniping skills lead you to many auction victories!