Prior to setting any eBay auction to go live, it is critical that you put in as much relevant data as possible about the items you are listing. This is just common sense.

In the rush to move on to other things, it is too easy to neglect to put in some of the information that is pertinent to the sale, and you will still encounter an occasional eBay sale in which a customer would like to return an item. From my past experience, it is best to simply take the item back and refund the buyer's payment promptly. There are several key reasons I recommend that eBay sellers implement this policy.

1. If a customer feels you are wrong, even though your ad states clearly "No Returns" "Customer needs to do his/her own research" or "As Is", that person will most likely leave negative feedback even if you are not at fault.

2. When a customer does not adhere to the "Terms and Conditions" in your eBay ad, it normally escalates into an eBay email battle. No one wins on this one - it drains your emotional state and wastes time.

3. Ninety-five percent of the time when I relisted that same item for sale on eBay, it sold for at least what the previous buyer had paid.

4. When you refund the item, you are credited all eBay and Paypal fees.

I will explain how I turned an eBay return or 'Lemon' as I call it, into delicious, profitable lemonade.

I had a client who purchased an LCD laptop replacement screen. I clearly listed on the offering "No Returns" and typed in the listing that anyone interested should check the compatibility of their laptop prior to bidding.

The client stated that she ordered the wrong screen. I called her attention to the terms and conditions of sale. I didn't want to accept the return and the emails became heated. Not willing to give up, she then located my contact information and called me. After we talked for awhile, I decided it would just be easier to accept her return.

During our discussion she mentioned that her husband sold used books on Amazon. I am always looking for new opportunities, so I was curious. She explained that they were located on the east coast and she didn't feel it harm their existing business, so she gave me all the data I would need to start a used book division.

A partner and I decided to give it a try. I do not actively participate in the operation any more, but my share in this used book venture nets me over $1500/month in profit.

At first it may seem unfair to take a return on an eBay sale, but you can learn from my experience. It will save you time, frustration and negative feedback and you never know what you might learn from a grateful customer.