Steps
1. Research the product itself. Some products last a long time, some do not last as long. Also, there are versions of particular products that may have a known fault to them. Read online reviews, then you can ask the owner questions to get an idea of if the product may have these problems. For example, let's say a certain electronic shows several complaints about the handle coming off, or the unit overheating when it sits idle for a few minutes--you can look closely at the used electronic in person to see if these defects are present. If you hadn't done the preliminary research, you would've never known to look! Another thing to consider, what does the device come with if you buy it new? This way, you'll know if there is anything missing, and the price should be adjusted to suit.
2. Become familiar with the lingo. A refurbished product hasn't necessarily been used; it may have been sent back to the manufacturer for a cosmetic reason, fixed accordingly, and sold as refurbished (often with a manufacturer's warranty). A reconditioned item, on the other hand, has been used and fixed up; they usually come with a warranty from the company who's selling it, but not from the manufacturer.[1]
3. Ask about who fixed or refurbished the product. If the manufacturer did it, then there is less risk involved than if it was done by a third party. You might also be able to find out what about the product was fixed or changed.
4. Make sure the product comes with a decent warranty. If you are buying from a retail chain or other reputable sellers ,chances are there will be a warranty of some sort provided. Find out how long this lasts and what it covers. Can you buy additional coverage? If so, for how long and how much does it cost? Even if you choose not to get theextended warranty, the fact that it's offered might indicate the company or manufacturer's confidence in the product. A short warranty (about 6-months and under) could indicate a lack of confidence in the product.
5. Ask about return and exchange policy. Most reputable places won't even ask questions if you return a product within a month or so.
6. If possible, test the product before buying it. If you are buying from someone besides a retail chain, this is especially important. While this won't guarantee that it won't break later, it at least makes sure that you have a currently working product.
7. Hold on to any receipts and/or paperwork you received. If you have any sort of warranty for the product, you will need this to receive a repair or replacement. This is especially important if you are paying with cash. Only a receipt can prove that you purchased it and when. Keep that receipt in a safe place for at least as long as the warranty lasts. You never know when it can come in handy.
TIPS
- Read descriptions carefully, especially if you are purchasing online. On auction sites, you can easily find products that are specified to not be working, but are for sale for parts. Descriptions may also list known issues, like scratched screens, missing parts and the like. Some problems may not hinder performance of the product, but anything that makes it less than mint condition should result in a reduction of cost.
- Sometimes a refurbished laptop computer will last longer than a brand new one. It's been through a thorough inspection twice and may have had problems inherent to the model fixed before it got to you. Buying one that's last year's really good model refurbished is probably the most bang for the buck you can get.
- Some stores have a trade-in program in which you can bring in your old electronics to get credit towards new ones.[2]
- If you can, purchase with a credit card. Many credit cards provide protection for purchases, so check to see what yours provides before buying. It may give added protection if the seller doesn't hold up to their promises or if the product was not as described. Paypal also provides this if you are purchasing from eBay no matter how you fund your purchase.[3]
- If you buy a piece of digital equipment (e.g., a phone or mp3 player) and find that it does have bugs, check to see if there is a firmware update you download to fix the problem. Check the manufacturer's site to see if there is one available for the product to fix known problems.
WARNING!!!
- A good thing to do when buying electronics online is to get insurance for shipping. For one, insurance tends to get your package treated much better, and for another many online sellers will not guarantee a product if not insured. Insurance will give you protection if the seller tries to claim it was working fine and you receive a non-working product. Don't give a seller a potential out for providing you with a bad product.
- If purchasing from eBay, make sure to check seller feedback. Also check for shipping prices. Sometimes a good deal may become less so because of overpriced shipping. Always check the seller's description and if he says it is in bad condition, do not buy it or else it may break very quickly.
- Many products have known issues to them that may be covered under a manufacturer's warranty, but would not be covered if you buy used.
- Don't hesitate to ask questions! If not buying from a retail chain that provides a money back guarantee, this is especially important. If the seller won't answer questions, or won't give you a chance to test it out if you can do so, don't buy.
- Never assume that the product works after you buy it be sure to test the product before you buy it this lowers the chance of the customer returning the product back to the seller
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