By popular demand I am working on a FAQ about buying a device on eBay... Any input on what this should / should not contain??? All replies are welcome even if I have already covered the issue...

-- What to look out for
-- Steps to take before purchasing off eBay
-- ect........

Thanks

Kris

recommended seller and blacklisted seller...
i had a bad experience with a powerseller. the bb was not as described at all (locked, not the model i wanted and used).

Yes, great idea as I had not even considered this... Thanks!!!!!

Kris

Kris, I would suggest the exact questions that should be asked of the seller, regarding IT Policy and release of PIN, etc. Even say, "copy and paste these questions to the seller".

Yes Sir, you have some great info there! I will make sure to get all that included....

Should we have a feedback area for sellers to avoid??? If so, how do we make sure the feedback is legit???

Kris

I wrote a pretty lengthy post on here one time maybe 2 months ago for someone to follow in buying off Ebay, with the exact questions I would ask. I will look for it as well.

Feedback is good, you maybe should require a link to the Ebay feedback they have already posted there (positive or negative), no linky, delete it.

Awesome idea Sir! Can you PM me the link if you find it??? {hint} use search feature

Thanks!!!

Kris

eh, this isn't the exact one I was looking for...

http://www.blackberryforums.com/gene...highlight=ebay

Thanks!!!!

I am about 70% complete on it....

I have so far (not the final FAQ, just a synopsis)

--Check the seller feedback rating
--Email seller with following Q's"
--Is the device brand new in box
--Has the device ever been used
--Is there an IT policy on the device
--If the device is used has the previous owner released the IMEI and PIN from their account
--Ask for additional photos
--ect......

Comments???

I think a feedback area on the faq would be great as long (as you indicated) there is a link to the auction / feedback

Kris

I've bought two used BlackBerry devices off ebay. They came with two different scenarios. Both were simple to deal with but even if the phone is as described, sellers always seem to forget something (I know I do ... heh).

First one, the 8700c, when I called to set up my data plan and everything, his IMEI and PIN hadn't been released but it was a two-minute fix by the rep. I was up and running pretty quickly.

Second one, a red Pearl I got two weeks ago, the person had left all of their personal info on the thing. I had no trouble switching to it online when I logged into the BIS. But, her contacts, photos, all that stuff were still on there.

Maybe a little info on wiping a device so you can start fresh?

All three of the used BB's I've purchased were from sellers with excellent ratings, feedback and longevity of membership (on ebay or here, in one case). They also provided multiple actual photos of the phones for sale.

There's only one ebay seller I trust that uses stock photos and the store doesn't sell BB's.

Ebay is a great place to find a deal. I managed to get a LNIB red Pearl for $135 shipped. :D

You just have to know where and how to look.

are the esn numbers clean can you give them to me so I can verify?

Are you the original owner?

are the water damage stickers still in place?

Does it come with a sim card?

If I cant get the device up and running can I return it?

Just a few that I can think of.

This is a great idea. Can't think of any additional questions. Great work!

Whats the person's return policy exactly (is it only for DOA or for dislike)? Is there a restocking fee?

I would also ask for the IMEI number in advance and call the service provider and check to see if it wasn't claimed stolen because if it was, they won't activate it.

Is it unlocked?

I have bought many items off ebay but buying a BB is definately a different animal. This is a great idea. I did purchase an 8800 recently and all went well but I had searched for a lot of info on these boards first. It would be nice to have it as a sticky.

PIN/IMEI, IT Policies and reported as lost/stolen would be the most important things, followed by what to do if it doesn't work.

It's now posted.....

Buying a BlackBerry off eBay - BlackBerryFAQ

Feedback on the FAQ is welcomed!

Kris

Nice job....

Thanks! I hope it will keep some from getting scammed....

Kris