buying online checklist

This mindmap provides a comprehensive checklist for making smart, informed purchases on eBay and other online platforms. It covers general buying tips—like comparing products, reading reviews, and checking the seller's reputation—as well as eBay-specific considerations. These include checking item condition, evaluating the seller’s level, exploring return policies, and verifying eBay’s Buyer Protection. It even highlights helpful tools like price history checks, the "Make Offer" feature, and ...

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buying online checklist by Mind Map: buying online checklist

1. others

1.1. styles

1.1.1. bad

1.1.1.1. Very bad

1.1.2. good

1.1.2.1. very good

1.1.3. not as good

1.1.4. not as bad

1.1.5. important

1.1.5.1. Very important

1.1.6. semi important

1.1.7. warning

1.1.8. link

1.2. AUTHOR

1.2.1. Nima Shokouhfar

1.2.1.1. Linkedin

1.2.1.1.1. Follow me on LinkedIn to stay updated on my latest professional insights and tech projects!

1.2.1.2. Youtube

1.2.1.2.1. code with nima

1.2.1.2.2. ideariver

1.2.1.3. Medium

1.2.1.3.1. ✍️ Follow me on Medium to read my latest articles on tech, coding, and innovation!

1.2.1.4. Github

1.2.1.4.1. ⭐️ Give my projects a star on GitHub and explore my repositories to discover new tools and innovations!

1.2.1.4.2. 💖 Sponsor me on GitHub to support my open-source contributions and help me create even more useful projects!

1.2.1.5. upwork

1.2.1.5.1. 💼 Hire me on Upwork for freelance projects. Let’s work together to bring your tech ideas to life!

1.2.1.6. Patreon

1.2.1.6.1. https://www.patreon.com/c/CodewithNima

1.2.1.7. main website: ideariver.ca

1.2.1.7.1. 🚀 Visit IdeaRiver.ca for all my latest projects, blogs, and ways to connect!

1.3. Styling Version

1.3.1. 3.0.3

2. main

2.1. General

2.1.1. compare with other products

2.1.1.1. this vs that

2.1.2. check whether is sponsored

2.1.3. check pictures

2.1.3.1. Review with images

2.1.4. check all comments

2.1.5. check 5 star

2.1.6. check number of item sold

2.1.7. check seller reputation

2.1.8. check youtube reviews

2.1.9. check youtube unboxing

2.1.10. check how to use in youtube

2.1.11. read the user manual

2.1.12. check lead time

2.1.12.1. 1

2.1.13. is it prime

2.1.14. shipment cost

2.1.15. check require accessory

2.1.16. check back compatibility with other equipment

2.1.17. check eco system

2.1.18. check warranti

2.1.19. check return policy

2.1.20. read description

2.1.21. check for second hand

2.1.22. check other sellers for same products

2.1.22.1. example

2.1.22.1.1. one has off

2.1.22.1.2. the other does not

2.2. eBay-Specific Checklist for Buying an Item

2.2.1. Check Item Condition

2.2.1.1. eBay offers various conditions

2.2.1.1.1. Options

2.2.2. Verify eBay Seller Level

2.2.2.1. Check if the seller is a "Top Rated Seller," which indicates high standards of service and customer satisfaction.

2.2.3. Look at Seller’s Return Policy Details

2.2.3.1. Confirm if the seller offers free returns and review any specific conditions tied to eBay’s return policy.

2.2.4. Review eBay Buyer Protection Coverage

2.2.4.1. Familiarize yourself with eBay's Buyer Protection Policy to understand the process in case there's an issue with the item.

2.2.4.1.1. eBay's Buyer Protection Coverage (eBay Money Back Guarantee)

2.2.5. Use Price History and Market Value Tools

2.2.5.1. Use tools like eBay’s “Price Guide” or external platforms to compare the price with recent sales and ensure it’s fair.

2.2.6. Look for "Make Offer" Option

2.2.6.1. Some listings allow you to submit a price offer, which can potentially save money if accepted.

2.2.7. Check Shipping Options & Estimated Delivery Date

2.2.7.1. Review different shipping options to see if you can find faster or cheaper delivery.

2.2.8. Consider eBay Authenticity Guarantee (if applicable)

2.2.8.1. For high-value items (e.g., luxury goods, electronics), check if the item is eligible for eBay’s Authenticity Guarantee for added peace of mind.

2.2.9. Check Item Location

2.2.9.1. Confirm if the item ships from a nearby location to minimize shipping time and avoid potential import fees.

2.2.10. Watch Item for Price Alerts

2.2.10.1. Use the “Watch” feature on eBay to receive notifications on price changes or if stock is running low.

2.2.11. Review Payment Options Available

2.2.11.1. Ensure the seller accepts safe payment methods like PayPal, Apple Pay, or credit cards through eBay checkout for added security.

2.2.12. Check for Active Coupons or eBay Deals

2.2.12.1. Look for active discounts or promotional codes on eBay that might apply to your item.

2.2.13. Confirm eBay Global Shipping Program (for international purchases)

2.2.13.1. If buying from overseas, check if the seller offers the Global Shipping Program, which can simplify customs fees and tracking.

2.3. AliExpress-Specific Checklist

2.3.1. Verify Buyer Protection Options 🔒

2.3.1.1. AliExpress has a Buyer Protection program similar to eBay, so confirm it applies to your purchase for added security.

2.3.2. Review Estimated Delivery Time and Shipping Provider 🚚

2.3.2.1. Shipping times can vary greatly on AliExpress, especially for international shipments. Check if there’s a faster shipping option (e.g., AliExpress Standard Shipping).

2.3.3. Check for Import Fees and Customs 🏷️

2.3.3.1. Depending on your country, you may incur customs fees for items purchased on AliExpress. Factor these into the total cost.

2.3.4. Look for “AliExpress Selection” or Top-Selected Products 🌐

2.3.4.1. Some items are marked as AliExpress Selection, indicating higher standards for quality and shipping reliability.

2.3.5. Check for Local Warehouse Options 🏬

2.3.5.1. Some items ship from local warehouses, which can shorten delivery times and reduce the risk of customs delays.

2.4. Best Buy-Specific Checklist

2.4.1. Check Open Box or Refurbished Options 📦

2.4.1.1. Best Buy offers open box and certified refurbished products at discounted rates, which can be a good way to save.

2.4.2. Consider Best Buy Totaltech Membership 🛠️

2.4.2.1. If you shop frequently at Best Buy, a Totaltech membership may provide benefits like extended warranties and free delivery.

2.4.3. Verify Price Match Policy 💸

2.4.3.1. Best Buy has a price match guarantee, so check for better prices on other sites and use their policy to save.

2.4.4. Look for Bundle Deals and Promotions 🎁

2.4.4.1. Best Buy often offers bundle discounts, especially on tech products, which can be an added value.

2.4.5. Consider Geek Squad Protection Plans 🛡️

2.4.5.1. For electronics, Best Buy offers protection plans that cover repairs and tech support. Review coverage details to decide if it's worth adding.

2.4.6. Check Curbside Pickup and In-Store Availability 🚗

2.4.6.1. Best Buy offers curbside pickup and in-store shopping. Check availability if you want to avoid shipping time.

2.5. Walmart-Specific Checklist

2.5.1. Review Walmart’s Price Match Policy 📉

2.5.1.1. Walmart offers price matching for identical items found on competitor websites or in-store. Check for this option to ensure the best price.

2.5.2. Look for “Walmart+” Membership Benefits 🏷️

2.5.2.1. Walmart+ members get benefits like free shipping, which can save on delivery costs for frequent purchases.

2.5.3. Check “Rollback” and “Special Buy” Sections 💰

2.5.3.1. Walmart frequently marks down items as Rollback or Special Buy, which can help you spot deals.

2.5.4. Use the Walmart App for In-Store Pickup 📲

2.5.4.1. The Walmart app allows you to reserve and pick up items, often with faster availability than shipping.

2.5.5. Evaluate Extended Warranty Options with Allstate 🛡️

2.5.5.1. Walmart partners with Allstate for extended warranties on electronics and appliances, which can be helpful for long-term coverage.

2.5.6. Check Local Store Inventory for In-Store Deals 🏪

2.5.6.1. Sometimes in-store prices differ from online, so check local inventory if you’re looking for in-store discounts.

2.6. Home Depot-Specific Checklist

2.6.1. Look for Home Depot Pro Xtra Benefits 🛠️

2.6.1.1. Home Depot offers Pro Xtra for business and frequent buyers, with benefits like purchase tracking, bulk discounts, and exclusive offers.

2.6.2. Check the “Special Buy of the Day” 🎯

2.6.2.1. Home Depot runs daily specials, which can offer significant savings on popular products. Check before purchasing.

2.6.3. Explore Rental Options 🏗️

2.6.3.1. For items that might only be needed temporarily (like tools or equipment), Home Depot offers rentals, which can be a more economical option.

2.6.4. Consider the Home Depot Protection Plan 🛡️

2.6.4.1. For larger items and appliances, Home Depot provides an in-house protection plan that covers repairs and replacements.

2.6.5. Check for Eco Options and Energy Star Ratings 🌱

2.6.5.1. Home Depot often highlights eco-friendly products or those with Energy Star ratings, which can be valuable for energy savings and sustainability.

2.6.6. Verify Appliance Installation and Haul-Away Services 🚛

2.6.6.1. For large appliances, Home Depot may offer installation and old appliance haul-away services, which can be a convenience if needed.