I ebay quite a bit mate - mainly sell these days, but I won't buy anthing with a value of over about £25 unless the person has over 10 positive feedback. I know it's not fair on new people, but this method means I have never had a bad experience.

Always send stuff registered post or signed for post when selling. That way it is insured up to about £50 and you don't get idiots receiving goods and claiming they never did and wanting their money back.

If you buy big money items off people with cr*p feedback (unless you are collecting and paying in person) you are mad.

Always keep good comms as well. E-mail with all details, when sent, etc, etc, and people are nicer if there is a problem.

My feedback's about 33 now with 100% positive, and several people I have sold to have bought direct off me outside of e-bay with confidence as a result (although I still wouldn't do this myself).