First time buying in eBay

[k5pS]

hi all

First a quick intro: I'm an Filipino bassist which right now is in Hawaii, in the island of Oahu. We're here with my parents visiting my sister for about 2 weeks; we arrived at Oct 21, and we will be leaving at Nov. 4.

I'm interested to buy a bass from eBay and I have certain questions:

1. This seller i'm interested with lives in Venice, CA, and uses US Postal Service Parcel Post. The bid ends in 2 days, so if I win, will it be possible to recieve it before Nov. 4? what's said here is that it's 2-9 days except weekends and holidays, although I can't be so sure.

It's not a major concern since my sister can take it for me and bring it home come december when we'll be, celebrating xmas together at the Phils., although it's an issue for my parents (and it would be nicer if I can have the bass asap)

2. Will there be additional expenses shipping to Hawaii? if so, by how much?

this is quite a 'first time' for me because not only is this my first encounter in ebay, it's also my first time in buying overseas, on dealing with shipping, and (hopefully) my first time on having a "real" bass.

thanks in advance

also: should I post the link here? I'm worrying that some guy here in TB would snag the bass

[Stumbo]

You might want to read the following thread about internet sales:
How to avoid getting ripped off on the internet

I've bought some stuff on eBay before. Always check the seller's ratings. Also, email the seller with your questions. Customer service is part of how they get rated by the buyers. They should be happy to answer any question you have.

You don't have to post the link on TB to get help.

Good luck with the auction.

Just remember, due to changes in humidity and temperature, if you win the bass, it will probably need a setup.