just signed up for paypal. never used it on a site like this before. lets say im purchasing a cue and the seller says $xxx via paypal as a gift. Do I click on Send Money, Type in the sellers email, fill in amount, then, im assuming click the button that say "im sending money to friends or family". What is the most common way to sell and buy through paypal when shopping this site? im just tired of being a caveman using money orders and certified checks. Appreciate any help you guys have to offer!
Kickin' Chicken is absolutely correct.
Used correctly, Paypal is very safe and quick to use.
However, you need to be certain that you know the party that you are dealing with before you send a "personal payment" to "friends or family". You lose all buyer/seller protection when you carry out a transaction, if you send as "personal" payment. Personally, I prefer to simply pay the extra few dollars for a straight purchase.
Having your Paypal set up with a credit card as the primary back-up will also give you an added layer of protection, but not for a payment sent to "friends or family." When you do that, you are telling everyone that you sent some money to someone else, and that you never expected to receive any product for the money. Just pony up the extra 3-4% and get some protection for the transaction. If you use the service of Paypal, just pay for it.
Most of the folks that you deal with are trustworthy and good for the deal, no matter which way you pay..it is the few who would take advantage of another person that you need to beware of.
Best of luck,
Joe