MOLI VIEW™

In previous installments, we've discussed bargain price aggregators like Dealhack and Dealmac, as well as finding bargains at manufacturers' websites.

Ultimately, buying a new computer online is like buying one in person. Do your research, don't purchase anything on impulse, and make sure you know the retailer and their policies.

So how about buying a used computer online?

Two sources we'll look at are Craigslist and eBay. We'll do Craigslist this time and eBay next time.

Craigslist isn't a single website; it's a collection of local and regional sites that offer free classified ads: Buy, sell, jobs, real estate, hook-ups, etc. Chances are, there's at least one where you live. In my case, I reside in an area between two sites, with proximity to a third. But that's just me. Depending on where you live, the local Craigslist site may not be local enough for you to bother with. And that's critical; it's a local thing.

Don't use Craigslist for anything other than local transactions. There are too many scam artists out there, and unlike eBay, you're pretty much on your own. Buyer beware! Craigslist will remove suspicious postings but that's about it. There's no other system in place to prevent fraud, just a warning: "Avoid scams and fraud by dealing locally! Beware any deal involving Western Union, Moneygram, wire transfer, cashier check, money order, shipping, escrow, or any promise of transaction protection/certification/guarantee."

Buying a computer through Craigslist is not for ignorant, timid, or blindly trusting individuals. But it can be done if you know what you're doing and are careful.

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