How to Shop for Refurbished Items
By Steven Dohrn
When shopping for a refurbished electronics, whether you”re in the market for a compact digital camera or a tower server, Its crucial to know exactly what you”re getting into, not just what you”re getting.
9 tips for buying used items online.
1. Does the retailer offer an extended warranty for the item? This doesn”t mean you have to buy an extended warranty - but whether or not they offer one indicates their degree of support for the product.
2. Do quick price comparisons using such shop bots as Froogle.com, MySimon.com and Shopzilla.com to make sure the refurbished price is lower than the best new-item price.
3.Read descriptions carefully, especially if you are purchasing online. Descriptions may also list known issues, like scratched screens, missing parts and the like.
4.You should also ask about their return and exchange policy.
5.Keep that receipt in a safe place for at least as long as the warranty lasts.
6. Make sure the product comes with a decent warranty.
7. Don”t ever tell a salesman you know nothing about the item you are trying to purchase, especially if he/she is on commission.
7.Narrow down your list by searching review sites for your preferred models, eliminating any product with persuasive negative reviews. The following sites offer independent electronics reviews that are usually more accurate than the gushing manufacturer-provided blurbs found on retail sites. CNET,PC Magazine,PC World,Consumer Guide and Digital Trends.
8.If the refurb is available directly from the manufacturer’’s webstore, check if the warranty is different for refurbished products than new ones.
Warranty info is often listed along with the item’’s specifications, or under “terms of use” or “terms of service.”
9.If you”ve found an especially deep discount through an eBay store or CraigsList ad, it’’s possible you”ve come across a grey market dealer. In this case, you may well end up with an excellent deal, but don”t take return policies for granted, nor expect manufacturer’’s warranties of any kind.
In my opinion, buying used electronics can save you a lot of money, and you can get the electronics you want. Just because an item is refurbished does not mean that it was previously owned by someone. The gadget may have had a defect that was discovered at the manufacturer, and was repaired. Technically making it a new item. The key is to follow the tips listed above, and use good judgement.
In short, buying a refurbished item can be a great way to get a great product at a bargain price, and the savings can be significant.
Thanks for your time
About The Author
I a 48 year old small business man, who has had an online retail presence for a number of years.
For discounted electronics http://bargains-mall.com