Trading tips

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Starting small is always a good idea. If a deal goes badly, and it's a $10 game involved in the dispute, then it's a lot less money/valued item to be lost. Striking up a deal for a $200 system purchase and having it going badly is a much more expensive prospect.
If the deal seems too good to be true, it might be. If the item or items are being sold for a much lower price and there's no obvious reason for it, there might be something amiss.
Always ask questions. Gather as much information from the seller/trader about the item(s) you are interested in. Ask for pictures. Determine things such as physical and working condition, accessories, warranties for systems, and how it will be packagaed and shipped. Find out who is shipping first or what payment methods are accepted if it is a sale. Cover as many details as possible to ensure you are comfortable with the transaction.
Keep in contact with the other party. Let them know you've received their payment or item. If real life interferes, inform any users you are currently in transaction with of any possible delays or termination of the trade/sale.
Keep all correspondence until the trade/sale is concluded and feedback is left. This includes a link to the original TL, PMs (received and sent), and emails (if applicable).
Check out the Trader Rating of your potential trading partner. Take the time to read over other feedback the user has received. Pay attention to negative and neutral feedback. Find out from the CAGs who left negative feedback what went wrong in the deal.
Never pay or mail cash. There is no way to prove payment was sent (no cancelled check, no PayPal receipt, etc.). As a seller, make sure the buyer is fully aware that sending cash is at their own risk. Money orders are a good alternative to cash if personal checks or PayPal are not options. A seller only accepting cash should raise a red flag.

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