Hunter Original Tall Matte Rain Boots
NY times named Hunter Boots original short boots as the Best Luxury Boots. Although they featured the Original Short Boots, the Original Tall Matte Rain boots which Costco is offering is made of the same materials.
I own a pair of Original Tall Hunter Boots and I’ve had them for 5 years now and they practically look the same as I first had them.
I like that it is very stylish and durable. They are orthopedic and I would always feel that weird feeling for the first few minutes I put them on but would eventually go away after. I usually wear 7.5 size but since Hunter boots only come in whole sizes, I got a size 8. And as we all know, as the size goes larger, the shaft goes taller and wider. I don’t mind having the calf size wider than necessary because this means that I can wear thicker socks during winter to keep my feet a little warmer. Oh and they’re also on the heavy side, though orthopedic, your legs will get tired after wearing it for a while.
If you’re interested in owning a pair of Hunter Original Tall Rain Boots, here’s another article from Cortin Session that you can read to know more about Hunter Boots before buying one.
Once you’ve decided that they’re the right fit for you. Check them out at Costco online. Costco is now offering these pair of boots for only $89.99
Hunter Original Tall Matte Rain Boots is being offered at $150 in their website- hunter.com. They also offer 20% discount for students, 15% discount when you sign up for their newsletter and 30% discount for Healthcare workers. But even with those discounts, Costco price for Costco members is still cheaper.
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How to Save on Dining Furnitures (hack?) When You Are Broke
I was left with little budget to furnish my unit when I purchased my condo. This is because of all the fees that came with buying a property such as lawyer’s fee and more. So I had to be resourceful, creative and on point with my budget.
Find out below how I was able to have a minimalist mid century modern dining furnitures for only $103.47. A simple minimalist mid century modern house dining theme that anyone with low budget can have.
Furnitures
- Table (a desk actually)
I considered this as my dining furniture “little hack”. Ikea offers this great concept of mix and match desk and legs. You can choose your preferred desk and then matched it with the color/type of the legs that you think would go well with your chosen desk.
Now I know what you’re thinking — a desk is not sturdy enough to be an alternative for a dining table. But let me explain.
I live by myself and my condo has a nice kitchen island with granite top. So I figured I wouldn’t be using the dining table much except when I have family and friends over.
I’ve had my table (a desk actually) for over a year now and it is still in good shape. And just as I have predicted, I only use it when I have guests over.
Ikea Desk 
Ikea Legs - Chairs
I used an app called OfferUp to sell my old furnitures before moving in to my condo. I had a good experience selling my furnitures in the app. So I thought I’d try buying this time. I was confident I’d have similar positive experience in finding minimalist mid century furnitures that would suit my taste and my condo.
I’m so glad I tried OfferUp because I found these 4 beautiful mid century chairs. They’re not authentic mid century pieces but they’re a nice replica.
They’re being offered at $60 for 4 pieces with one caveat — 2 chairs are a bit wobbly. The seller said it was because they’re missing “washers”.
I contacted the seller. And after one offer and one counter offer, I picked up 4 mid century chairs. And guess what, I paid only $40 for all of them.
Are you wondering what I did with the 2 wobbly chairs? I was able to find matching washers from ACE Hardware for less than a dollar.
Alternative
As of this writing I could not find similar listings in OfferUp so I searched elsewhere for you. Though Amazon could not beat the price I got from OfferUp, it is the cheapest I could find online. And they’re brand new.
(Disclaimer: I am not connected or affiliated with the seller. I have not ordered anything from this seller. Please take your time in reviewing the item and vetting out before purchasing).
Amazon Mid Century Chairs - Plant accessories
I am in so much awe that one such tiny thing can make all the difference. My minimalist looking table ( a desk actually) looked so much better when adorned with this artificial plant from Ikea. This wheat grass-looking plant paired with galvanized pot is the bomb.
Ikea Artificial Plant 
Ikea Galvanized Plant Pot Alternative
A tip for an even lower price — I found a cheaper galvanized plant pot from dollar tree which I wish I found first before I bought the one from Ikea.
Dollar Tree Galvanized Plant Pot Those are my mix and match pieces of furniture that I didn’t expect would go so well together. Mid century meets modern minimalist furnitures enhanced with trendy artificial plant.
I always find it delightful seeing the shock in people’s faces when I reveal how much they only cost.
Price List:
Total Cost for My Simple Minimalist Mid Century Dining Furnitures 
Total Cost Using Alternative Items from Amazon and Dollar Tree 
Allow me to showcase my Dining Set on a Budget
P.S. You might think “the wall could use some decors” and you are so much right.
How I would love to hang a classic elegant looking framed art. Or to make it even more functional a flat screen tv. But when I think of how much it would cost me, I abandoned the idea. And instead, I thought of a better one.
I could just have the wall function as a projector screen. A nice portable projector is way cheaper than a flat screen tv. And since it’s portable, I can use it in my living room and I can set it up in my bedroom too. The best part is that I don’t have to deal with wires and cables that are kind of an eye sore for me.
I don’t have a projector yet. I haven’t found the need to have one. But when the time comes, I’ll be sure to post it and share my experience.
Or if you have any suggestions on what to decorate my empty wall, please feel free to comment down below.
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30 Items You Should Buy From Dollar Tree
Have you ever seen those Dollar Tree hacks wherein they were awesomely done no one would ever guess they were from Dollar Tree? And have you ever wonder how some people are so talented in making beautiful things out of simple inexpensive things? I have. And I’m so jealous. I love arts and crafts but I’m not that crafty.
I also wonder if I am the only one ending up having to spend more and totally blowing up the whole idea of “hacking”. This is because whenever I try to copy those hacks I find myself having to buy more for tools and stuff needed to transform something into something great.
If you’re like me, this is for you. This article is just straight up items that I prefer getting from Dollar Tree. No need to bring your hacking skills, they can be used as is and work just as great.
There’s one item that I want to call “a little hack”. But don’t worry, like I’ve said earlier, no need for hacking skill. You don’t have to do anything, no need to transform anything. You can just use this item other than what it was originally created for. Clue: clothespins. Check out below.
Party Supplies/Items for Occasions and Events
1. Dollar Tree Balloons
For one time use of balloons on special occasions and events, I always get my balloons from Dollar Tree.
Dollar Tree Baloons 2. Dollar Tree Gift Bags
It’s the gift itself that matters but how the gift was presented can make a lasting impression. So if you want to make some good impressions without overpaying for something that has the tendency to be thrown away, why not get gift bags from Dollar Tree. They have lovely designs and the quality is the same as the ones you would get for a higher price.
3. Dollar Tree Gift Bag Stuffing Tissues
While you’re buying lovely gift bags, why not grab some gift tissues to stuff them with from Dollar Tree.
Gift Tissue 4. Dollar Tree Greeting Cards
I tend to stay away from Greeting Cards to give to my Gen Z nephews and nieces because I have a very cool alternative that I wrote in my article about cute Dollar Tree items. But there are occasions that call for Greeting Cards such as sympathy cards, get well soon cards and much more. For these, Dollar Tree is my go to store. Cheapest is 2 for a dollar and the most expensive one is, you guess it, a dollar.
Dollar Tree Gift Cards Travel Items
5. Dollar Tree Travel Size Toothpaste
Where do you buy your travel sized toothpaste from? I suggest making a trip to Dollar Tree for your travel must haves. I highly recommend getting your toothpaste from there. You’ll get more for a dollar than when you buy it from other stores. Walmart’s travel toothpaste for $0.97 comes in 1 oz while the one you’ll be getting from Dollar Tree comes in either 1.9 or 2.5 oz.
Dollar Tree Toothpaste Compare to Walmart:
Walmart 1.0 oz Travel Size Toothpaste 6. Dollar Tree Dental Floss
Same thing with toothpaste, you’ll get more for a dollar in Dollar Tree than in other stores. Dollar Tree has 60 pieces in one bag while Walmart has 150 pieces for $3.63. When you do the math, 150 pieces from Dollar Tree would cost only $2.50. So it is still cheaper.
Dollar Tree Dental Floss 
Walmart Dental Floss 7. Dollar Tree Travel Meds
Never travel without over-the-counter-medicines especially when traveling abroad. You can get some popular brand medications from Dollar Tree.
8. Dollar Tree Travel Size Deodorant
By now, you probably have seen the pattern here already, your dollar will go a long way in Dollar Tree than in other stores.
Dollar Tree Deodorant Items for Home Use
9. Dollar Tree Liner
I can’t believe liners for drawers, cupboards and fridge from Dollar Tree are of good quality. They come in nice designs too.
10. Dollar Tree Collapsible Storage
I use this collapsible storage for organizing my things in my walk in closet. I’ve had them for over a year now. They came in boring colors like grayish black and beige but they are very functional though.
Dollar Tree Collapsible Storage in Black/Gray But wait, in my recent trip to Dollar Tree Store, I noticed some new exciting colors and designs. Check them out:
11. Dollar Tree Felt Pads
Have you ever experienced having a guest who grabbed and moved a chair mindlessly you couldn’t help but just cringed, crossed your fingers and hoped that it did not scratch your hardwood floor? Well this one’s for you. With felt pads you never have to worry again. And since it’s from Dollar Tree, you never have to worry about your budget too.
Dollar Tree Felt Pads 12. Dollar Tree Paper Towel Holder
If you need simple paper towel holder that would do the job, you can get it for cheap in Dollar Tree.
Dollar Tree Paper Towel Holder 13. Dollar Tree Lint roller
This one needs no introduction. I just know it gets the job done.
Dollar Tree Lint Roller 14. Dollar Tree Hanger
Before you say anything about hangers from Dollar Tree being of poor quality that they easily breaks, let me explain. I get my hangers from Dollar Tree and I use them for light tops, blouses and shirts. Since they’re light weight, DT hangers can withstand them. And I have a lot of these so getting hangers from Dollar Tree saves me a lot of money.
Dollar Tree Hanger 15. Dollar Tree Plates
Check out some nicely designed plates from Dollar Tree.
16. Dollar Tree Placemats
I love their designs. Need I say more?
Dollar Tree Placemats 17. Dollar Tree Coasters
Good quality, lovely designs naturally absorbent coasters. Dollar Tree coasters can easily compete with coasters from Crate and Barrel, Pier 1, Target, Amazon Macy’s and more.
Dollar Tree Coaster 18. Dollar Tree Glassware
Glasswares for Kitchen Storage need not be expensive. You’ll find nice and useful glass containers from Dollar Tree. Consider going to Dollar Tree for your Kitchen Organization project.
19. Dollar Tree Over-The-Door Hook
I like this over the door hook because I find them sturdy. I use this in my office cubicle to hang my jacket during winter.
Dollar Tree Over-the-door Hook 20. Dollar Tree Cleaning Supplies
I get washcloths and microfiber cloth from Dollar Tree to wipe my countertops to save on paper towel.
I like this handheld microfiber cleaning tool and keep it in my car. When I’m stuck in traffic, I can easily grab this and wipe my dashboard.
Dollar Tree Cleaning Supply 21. Dollar Tree White Board
My own little hack no. 1 — This is a school supply but I put this under my sink in my kitchen and bathroom. In case something leaks, this will protect the floor base from getting stained.
Dollar Tree White Board 22. Dollar Tree Clothespin
My own little hack no. 2 — I use clothespin to keep my bag of chips fresh. I am so proud of this great find.
Dollar Tree Clothespins I did a search in Amazon for clothespin. If we calculate cost per piece, Dollar Tree still ends up cheaper (at $0.028 per piece) than Amazon (at $0.06 per piece).
Amazon Clothespins I found these cute Bag of Chips clips from Amazon. They caught my eyes because they’re so cute. Compare to Dollar Tree , function wise, they’re a little pricey at $3.19 for 6 pieces only.
It’s a Girl Thing
23. Dollar Tree Revlon Loose Powder
Surprised? Me too! I was surprised to see a popular brand of make up in Dollar Store. I want to mention though that not all Dollar Store locations have this. I’ve been to a lot of Dollar Store and it’s very rare that I see this brand.
Dollar Tree Revlon 24. Dollar Tree Hair Accessories
If you’re like me who often loose bobby pins and elastics for some reasons, I suggest getting these items from Dollar Tree.
25. Dollar Tree Random Cute Items
Check out this article to see all the cute stuffs I found in Dollar Tree.
Office Supplies
26. Dollar Tree Pens and Pencils
There are a good variety of pens and pencils to choose from in Dollar Tree. And there are some cute ones too.
27. Dollar Tree Mailing/Packing Essentials
Mailing an item? Get your essentials from Dollar Tree.
Dollar Tree Mailing/Packing Items For Special Occasions
28. Dollar Tree Baby Shower Essentials
Whenever I’d pass by the Baby Shower aisle in Dollar Tree, I couldn’t help but gush all over these cute items for Baby Shower.
I found a sash in Etsy. It’s not exactly the same as the one from Dollar Tree but it’s the closest I could find. And it retails for $7.89.
29. Dollar Tree Bachelorette/Wedding Essentials
I’ve had the honor of being a Maid of Honor 3x already and I must admit, being a Maid of Honor can be expensive. If you’ve been asked the honor of being the Maid of Honor, throw the bride an awesome party she won’t forget by getting your stuff from Dollar Tree. Not only they’re cute but they could also save you money.
30. Halloween Costumes
Whether it’s for Halloween or themed children’s party, you can dress up your kids with these adorable costumes from Dollar Tree.
I hope you enjoy perusing these great items I found from Dollar Tree. Why pay expensively when you can get the same for a dollar?
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Short Quotes
Why is it that quotes are taking over the world? You can see quotes everywhere. They’re all over on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Creative people turned them into a profitable business in the form of decals, wall arts and t-shirt designs.
Quotes are relatable. There’s always a quote that you can relate to at a given time or situation.
Quotes can be a source of inspiration and motivation.
Positive quotes can uplift your mood so I recommend reading few uplifting quotes in the morning and at night or whenever you have free time.
Quotes can be a source of wisdom.
Quotes are easy to understand and easy to remember.
And what I really like about quotes the most is that quotes make me feel I am not alone in whatever it is I am going through. That whoever wrote the quote also went through the same thing, got through it and now wanted to help others through written quotes.
I wanted to share some of the quotes that I hope you’ll find relatable, full of wisdom and inspiring. I made them so they can be printed. Please feel free to download and print them.
Printable Quotes
1. Women Empowerment Quotes
2. Having a bad day?
3. Bible Quotes
Remember, you are beautiful!
Ten Best Clothes From Costco For Women
Styled by Costco
I love fashion. I love trying out new clothing fad. I make it a point to always update myself with current trends in style and fashion.
So I got curious when I saw an article from Washington Post. It was reported that Costco apparel made $7 billion each year more than Old Navy or Neiman Marcus.
If you’ve never try Costco’s clothing line for women, check out these 10 Costco clothes for women.
*FULL DISCLAIMER: Photos were not professionally taken. They are unfiltered. They were worn by regular ordinary person and not a professional model. Colors may be slightly different in person due to the lighting at the time the photos were taken.
1. Costco Buffalo Summer Linen Ladies Adjustable Strap Dress
Costco Adjustable Strap Dress for Women What I like:
- Adjustable Strap : I like that I can make this dress less or more busty.
- Two pockets : Having a pocket on a dress is already a bonus. But two?
- Thick Fabric : It has a lining so it’s not like the typical linen clothes that are usually see through.
What I don’t like:
- Too much fabric in the torso : I feel that it makes me look pregnant. But my body build may partially to be blamed here. I’m heavy in the middle.
- Weight : Because there’s a lot of fabric plus the lining, the dress feels heavy when you first pick it up. But once you wear it, it does not feel as heavy anymore.
2. Costco MPG Ladies Sleeveless Summer Gray Dress
Costco Sleeveless Dress With Mesh Detail for Women What I like:
- Price : For $12.99 this dress is a bargain.
- Mesh detail in the bottom
- Built-in removable breast cups : I like that in the heat of Summer, this dress allows me to wear one less clothing item (bra).
- Pockets : Again, for me, pockets are a plus.
- Length. It’s not too long not too short.
What I don’t like:
- Pockets : As I have mentioned, I like that this dress has pockets but they tend to bulge giving the dress an unpleasant appearance.
- Fabric : It is on stretchy side. And though the fabric feels soft and comfy, it tends to cling on the body making this dress a little less forgiving.
3. Costco Nautica Shorts
Costco Nautica Stripe Shorts for Women What I like:
- Flattering fit
- Length : It’s not too short and not too long for me
- Comfortable
What I don’t like
- Pockets : They’re sewn not deep enough that anything you put into may fall off.
- Colors and Design : I like the nautical design of this shorts but I wish there are more designs and colors to choose from.
4. Athletic/Active Tights
Costco Athletic/Active Tights for Women What I like:
- Price : This is a steal for $9.97
- Fit : I find that this leggings minimizes crotch bulge, slit and camel toe appearance that is usually unavoidable when wearing tight leggings.
- Fabric : It is comfy, soft and smooth.
- High Waisted : It serves as tummy control.
What I don’t like
- Not too stretchy : This could be positive or negative depending on your preference.
- Fabric folds : Some fabric folds around the knee area. Not a big deal for me though.
5. Costco Danskin Ladies’ Tie Front Active/Athletic Top
Costco Ladies’ Tie Front Athletic/Active Top What I like:
- Fabric Material : It is made of Soft French Terry fabric. Whatever it is, it is so soft.
- Cuffed sleeves and Adjustable tie front : These kind of details give this basic white top some chic and style.
- Fit and Comfort: It’s not too tight and not too loose which makes it very comfortable to wear.
What I don’t like:
- See through: Though the fabric is thick, it is still somewhat see through. I guess it is expected with most white colored fabric.
6. Costco DKNY 1/2 Zip Pullover Sweater
Costco DKNY 1/2 Zip Pullover Sweater for Women What I like:
- Color blocking design : The design is what gives this sweater its charm
- Soft material : It’s comfy, need I say more?
- Lightweight
- Pocket. Although it takes some time getting used to having front pocket instead of the typical side pocket, it is still convenient to have a pocket to put things like cellphone or wallet.
What I don’t like:
- Length : The length is actually just right for me but if it had been a little longer it would have been perfect.
*this item tends to run big
7. Costco Hilary Radley Ladies’ Pull-On Pant with Tummy Control
Costco Pull On Work Pants for Women What I like:
- High Waist Tummy Control : Tummy area is one area that I would like to have a little control on. This pants gave me that control and more (by giving me extra confidence).
- Pull-on design : Sometimes I find pants zipper and buttons add bulges and make my lower belly seem bigger. Pull on design takes care of that issue.
- Material: It is soft and comfy.
- Length : Hits just right on the ankle.
What I don’t like:
- No pockets : But I guess it’s a sacrifice that comes with wanting to not have bulges.
8. Costco Hilary Radley Ladies’ Seersucker Pull-On Ankle Pant
Costco Seersucker Pull-On Pants for Women What I like:
- High Waist Tummy Control
- Pull on design
- Length
What I don’t like:
- Wrinkly : I noticed that after washing, though typical with seersucker fabric, it’s more wrinkled than expected.
9. Costco 32 Degrees Ladies’ Stretch Linen Blend Pants
Costco 32 Degrees Ladies Linen Blend Pants Of all the clothing items I bought from Costco that I am featuring here, this is the one that I won’t recommend at all. It’s wrinkly which is typical for linen type fabric. But also, the fit and design is not flattering at all.
Can’t beat the price though for $9.99
10. Costco Ella Moss Ladies’ High-Rise Jean
Costco Ella Moss High Rise jeans for Women Of all the clothing items I bought from Costco that I am featuring here, this is my favorite.
What I like:
- High Waisted : Very forging and flattering
- Lightweight, soft and comfy fabric material.
- Length : I like that it looks between capri pants and ankle pants.
What I don’t like:
Nothing
*It tends to stretch out and gets baggy after wearing it for a while. It doesn’t bother me. I feel like its bagginess just makes it more fashionable. But please consider this when choosing the right size for you.
Costco as a One Stop Shop
Check out Costco for all your needs. While doing your groceries or picking up medicines, drop by the apparel area and get some fashionable, comfortable clothes at an affordable price.
Styled By Costco 10 Cute Dollar Tree Items
I hate to be the one to say this but Target Store has a rival now when it comes to cute items. Target is notorious for selling items that you don’t really need but they’re so cute they leave you defenseless. And before you know it, you’re already formulating some lame excuses why you have to purchase them.
But lately I find myself checking out Dollar Store before considering going to Target. Read more if you want to find out why.
1. Dollar Tree Desk Accent
Hashtag-Blown-Away-By-The-Price.
Can you believe these accents only cost a dollar? Including this hashtag decor which is so popular nowadays. Anyone would wonder if Dollar Tree is competing with Target now?
#OneDollarOnly 
#noneed2wait4halloween 
#isithalloweenyet? 
#icantbelieveitsonlyadollar 
2. Dollar Tree Prayer Box
Whenever I would give gift money or gift card to my nieces, I would make a trip to Dollar Store and get this $1 prayer box. I use this to put the money or gift card inside. I prefer this instead of using Greeting card for the obvious reason that greeting cards tend to get thrown away (or kept in a drawer) after serving its purpose. Unlike this prayer box which comes with tiny notepad and pencil that can be used everyday. I am still in awe every time I buy a prayer box. How can this cute multipurpose product just cost $1? (P.S. I am not complaining about the price though).
Let all that you do be done in love – I love this Bible verse and I love this prayer box 3. Dollar Tree Cute Trinkets Holder
These item can serve two purposes – one as a decor and another one is to hold your cute little trinkets like rings or earrings that you use often (if not everyday). And it will only cost you a dollar.
Cute Trinkets Holder 4. Dollar Tree Cute Band Aids
According to Wikipedia, a band aid is a small medical dressing used for injuries not serious enough to require a full size bandage. I agree, don’t take this kind of injury seriously but you have to take good care of it. And while you’re at it why not express yourself and your personality through these cutely designed band aids? And did I mention that it will only cost you a dollar to express yourself?
Express your emotions through emoticons band aid for only one dollar 
5. Dollar Tree Cute Magnets
I never thought of adorning my fridge with magnets other than travel magnets I’ve acquired until I saw these cute magnets from Dollar Tree with either funny or inspiring quotes. This is a game changer! Watch out travel magnets in my fridge, you’re getting cute roomies.
Be magnetized with this One Dollar magnets 6. Dollar Tree Wall Decals
Have a boring empty wall? Try these decals from Dollar Tree to liven it up.
Stick them on the Wall 7. Dollar Tree Wall Art/Wall Frames
Whether you’re a cat lover, dog lover or an art lover – these frames are for you.
Wall Art for Lovers 8. Dollar Tree Artificial Succulents
According to Wikipedia, succulents are often grown as ornamental plants because of their striking and unusual appearance, as well as their ability to thrive with relatively minimal care. But you know what’s striking that requires not just minimal care but no care at all? Artificial succulent plants. And you know what’s even better? The price! It’s only for a dollar.
Dollar Tree No Care Plants 9. Dollar Tree Small Jewelry Holder
Similar to item 3, these items are for holding small jewelries like rings, earrings and bracelets. Don’t you find the cat so cute? I use its tail to hold my rings.
Jewelry Holder 10. Dollar Tree Macaron Shaped Something
Pardon the title. I actually don’t know what it’s called but it is so darn cute. Similar to prayer box (mentioned as item no. 2), I use this in lieu of greeting card or money envelope. Look how detailed this item is.
For macaron lovers Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you find this useful and interesting. I hope that when you get the itch to go to Target to search for something cute that you’ll consider taking a trip to Dollar Tree. You’ll find there are cute stuff that don’t cost a ton.
If and when you do, please comment below. Let me know what you find cute and not cute at all. Promise, no feelings will be hurt with your honesty.
HOW TO CONFIDENTLY BUY SMARTPHONE ON EBAY DURING THE PANDEMIC
Imagine your own phone breaking down in the middle of a pandemic when everybody was supposed to stay home and most brick and mortar stores were temporarily closed. Um yeah, it happened to me.
So I had to find a replacement , I had to find it fast (because you know, cellphone withdrawal is a thing) and I had to find it online.
Samsung Note 10 looked very interesting and that S pen was very intriguing but very expensive. I didn’t want to spend too much in this pandemic situation where no one knows what the future holds but I couldn’t stop thinking about the S pen. Then I stumbled upon an article about a poor man’s Note 10.
Samsung released an affordable version of Note 10 and Note 10 Plus called Note 10 lite. It has most of the features that its flagship siblings have. This meant I get to have S pen experience at an affordable price.
One challenge I had to face before I was able to get my hands on this promising new smartphone was that this poor man’s Note 10 was only released in few countries and US was not one of them. Challenge accepted!
I went into my research mode again and eventually I found out that this phone is available here in US but as an International version (unlocked) and can be purchased from Amazon or Ebay.
Ebay vs Amazon
Between the two, I preferred Ebay over Amazon.
For Amazon loyalists and prime members, before you react, let me tell you why — Amazon is actually my “go-to” online store. I trust this site and I have been a prime member for almost 10 years now. But when I searched for Note 10 lite there were not a lot of listings and not a lot of reviews. So I had to look elsewhere.
I checked Ebay and found several listings of this phone. I have also been a longtime Ebay member but honestly all of my purchases up to this date were very inexpensive. The reason is so that if I ever get scammed (forgive me for my paranoia, it’s just that I’ve heard a lot of scam stories), it would only hurt my pride not my pocket.
I was still hesitant to purchase from Ebay so I did some more research online.
After extensive research, I am happy to announce that I am now a proud owner of a brand new International version of Note 10 lite. As of this writing, I have been using the phone for weeks now and haven’t gotten any issues.
How to Vet for Legit Ebay Seller
Allow me to share the steps I took before I was able to decide which Ebay seller to buy the phone from. I hope that this article can give you guidance when purchasing not just a smartphone but any items on Ebay.
1. Top Rated Seller Seal
I looked for the Top Rated Seller seal on the listing. This seal is being awarded by Ebay when a seller meet certain qualifications and guidelines. This shows the seller’s level and performance standards.
Here’s what I found on Ebay page for the qualifications to receive the seal.
Qualify as a Top Rated Seller
To become a Top Rated Seller, you must meet the following guidelines:
- An eBay account that’s been active for at least 90 days.
- 100 or more transactions and $1,000 in sales during the last 12 months with US buyers.
- A defect rate less than or equal to 0.5%, with three or fewer defects from unique buyers.
- Cases closed without seller resolution less than or equal to 0.3%, and two or fewer cases.
- A late shipment rate less than or equal to 3%, and five or fewer late shipments.
- Tracking uploaded within your stated handling time, and carrier validation for 95% of transactions to US buyers.
2. Number of Sold Items
I looked at the number of Sold items and read the feedback for that particular item in the Product page. From reading the feedbacks I have learned that the buyers who recently bought that item were happy and satisfied with the product and the seller. NOTE: These are just feedbacks for the item listed. You should also check out Seller’s overall feedback ratings. Refer to step 6 below.
3. Seller's Score
Another thing I looked within the Product page was the seller’s score. This is the percentage of seller’s positive ratings and feedbacks. The screenshot below showed that 99.7% of the buyers who left a feedback had positive experience with the seller.
4. Star Ratings
Next I looked for the star ratings. This can be found in brackets next to the username. This shows how many buyers have left feedback for the seller.
NOTE: Take time to read the feedbacks for more detailed view of a seller’s performance. Refer to step 6 below.
Ebay awards a star to the Seller based on this chart:
You can read more about Start Rating here.
5. Seller's Store
I also checked the seller’s store and look for other items that the seller is selling. I felt at ease to know that this seller is selling other smartphones and tech items. For me, having a lot of listing means that the seller took time to source his/her products and list them on Ebay. The seller has established his/her online store on Ebay and is not a “here-today-gone-tomorrow” kind of store.
6. Seller's Overall Positive Feedback
I took the time to read all (ok, I lied, not all because there were a lot but I read enough) seller’s overall positive feedback. I looked at how many positive feedback versus negative feedback this seller has received (feedbacks as a buyer has a separate tab, you should concentrate on the seller’s feedback). My tip is do not concentrate on just the positive, I especially like reading negative feedbacks because they give me an idea on which area the seller is lacking and how he/she resolved an issue. Through negative feedbacks you will also learn that sometimes they are about failed expectations from the product and not from the seller.
7. Contact the Seller
I contacted the seller to ask questions before purchasing the item. The seller responded after only 3 hours. This did not automatically mean that the seller is trustworthy but it gave me a feeling that the seller backs and stand by his/her product. I also contacted the seller after receiving the product because I had some questions and again he/she replied within 3 hours. The responses I received made me feel the seller’s presence, that there really is a businessman/businesswoman behind the listed item.
8. Payment Options
I paid through PayPal. I like using PayPal whenever possible. PayPal makes it easy for buyers to dispute a charge. I also like the fact that when you send payment to PayPal, the seller won’t receive financial information like credit card number or bank account number.
It is also worth mentioning that Ebay has its own money back guarantee program.
Full Disclosure
I actually haven’t had the need to file a claim from either PayPal or Ebay. I consider it a good thing that I have been lucky so far with all my online purchases. It really pays to be an informed consumer.
Words of Advice
There are a lot of advices online on how to ensure the seller is legit and how to spot a scammer on Ebay. The ones I have mentioned above are not 100% foolproof, they are just the ones I did to vet out this seller so I could purchase a phone.
To be honest, even after all the steps I took I was still not 100% confident with my purchase until I had the product in my hand and was able to check and scrutinize it.
The agony is in the waiting for the product to arrive at my doorstep especially when I learned that the seller sent the product via USPS and not UPS or FEDEX, no signature required. I couldn’t remember how many times I have checked USPS tracking. But once I had the product in my hand and was able to check and test it, that’s when I patted my shoulder and told myself I did a good job.
Remember if it seems like it isn’t right, it probably isn’t. And if it feels like something is wrong, trust your guts. Do your due diligence in checking out the seller and the product. Research, research, research.
Gallery
I took pictures when the product arrived . I want you to see how it was packaged neatly.
I prefer
