Always remember to ask any and all questions before buying. Don't be shy. A reputable seller will always be happy to detail the condition of any thing they sell. They will not find your questions offensive or bothersome. Do not go on pictures alone. Many a flaw and fault can be hidden in even the clearest of pictures so never ever hesitate to ask all questions up front before buying.

As well as asking about the items themselves, never hesitate to inquire about a seller's reputation. Don't be afraid to ask for references and DO take full advantage of feedback forums and discussion boards. Believe it or not, we all know each other pretty well here in our little corner of the net, and posting a quick question about a sellers reputation is the easiest way to avoid a potentially bad experience. You can also use the list on the My Little Pony Arena to investigate a potential trader. Never be afraid to ask about personal experiences or references for a seller, as it is expected, welcomed and completely understood by all reputable sellers. If you do ever encounter anyone who balks or hedges away from the subject of references or if you ever have a funny or 'bad' feeling about a situation, DO NOT deal with them.

Be aware that Euro ponies were released with different names than their US counterparts, and many US ponies were released with the same names. For example there is a Euro flower pony Daffodil and a mail order birthflower Daffodil, three newborn twins named Sniffles, two named Snookums and two sets of Rattles and Tattles. I mention this because when negotiating a trade, buy or sale over the net where no picture has changed hands, always, ALWAYS, try to include a desciption of the pony with symbol color and year and set of the pony in question. It saves a lot of confusion and time. Make sure when writing up your want and trade lists to also include this info, ex: 'yr 5 Newborn Sniffles, pink/mittens'.

First and foremost, remember, what ever you see on ebay today, will be there another day, and another and another. There is always another chance to win the item of your dreams, so if patience is the key to collecting, patience ad infinitum is the key to buying on ebay. Again, read the feedback of the seller and ask questions before you bid. Your bid is a binding contract and is to be taken as an intent and promise to buy.

Understand the truth behind the words 'rare', 'hard to find', and 'mint'. Whenever these words are used to describe an item, take the time to ask other collectors if indeed the prices seem right and the item is, as it is represented. It is wise to watch ebay auctions without bidding to learn of fluctuations and trends and to do ebay searches on completed items you are interested in, Just to gleen an average price. Again, other collectors will always be happy to help you out with their opinion; never hesitate to ask.

So you have found an item you wish to purchase, please, please, please use common sense when dealing with anyone over the internet. Do not give out credit card numbers, personal banking information, or access passwords or pin numbers to any non insured, non accredited seller or accounts service.