Many sellers are unaware that an online auction is the same as a normal bushiness. Just like a normal business, there are laws that must be followed. That means that if you don't keep the laws, you could be liable for fines and other legal actions. The federal law says that you must only advertise your services and items honestly and accurately. You are not allowed to make bids on your own items to drive the price up. You are not allowed to make or give false testimonies about yourself at the auction website to make yourself look better. These are just a few of the federal laws, but you should get the idea. An online auction is a business and not a game. If you treat your online auctions like a business, they will treat you well too. The laws are there to protect you and me, and they are meant to be taken seriously. If you aren't ready to do that, then you'd be better off making money some other way.

Here are some tips to that can help you avoid legal problems. Let your customers know if you offer service after they buy. Explain your return policy and make it clear who pays for shipping if an item must be returned. Always include one or more photos. List some FAQ's-- it will help sales and save extra emails being sent to you. Always make clear if the item is new, used, refurbished, or "as is".