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Buying Guide
Learn how to bid successfully, understand reserve prices, and make safe purchases on Soko marketplace.
Important: Soko does not process payments. All transactions happen directly between buyers and sellers. Always meet in safe, public places and inspect items before paying.
How to place a bid
Master the art of successful bidding
Find an item you want to bid on
Review all photos and read the description carefully
Check the seller's rating and reviews
Note the current bid amount and time remaining
Enter your maximum bid (the most you're willing to pay)
Click "Place Bid" to confirm - this is a binding commitment
You'll be notified if someone outbids you
If you win, the seller will contact you to arrange payment and pickup
Understanding reserve prices
What reserve prices mean and how they work
A reserve price is the minimum amount a seller will accept
Items with reserves show "Reserve not met" until reached
You can bid below the reserve, but won't win unless it's met
Once the reserve is met, the highest bidder wins
Reserve amounts are hidden from bidders
Look for "No Reserve" auctions for guaranteed wins
Ask the seller about reserve amounts if you're unsure
Payment methods
How payments work on Soko
Soko does NOT process payments - all transactions are direct
Common payment methods: cash, bank transfer, mobile money
Cash is often preferred for local pickups
Bank transfers provide a paper trail for expensive items
Never pay before inspecting the item in person
For expensive items, consider meeting at a bank
Always get a receipt for your records
Report any payment issues to Soko support
Bidding strategies
Tips to improve your chances of winning
Set your maximum bid early and stick to it
Research similar items to know fair market value
Bid in odd amounts (e.g., $27 instead of $25)
Watch auctions ending at different times
Don't get caught in bidding wars - set limits
Consider shipping costs in your maximum bid
Last-minute bidding can be effective but risky
Use the watchlist to track items you're interested in
Auction timing
Understanding how auction timing affects your bids
All times shown are in your local timezone
Auctions typically run for 3, 5, or 7 days
Some auctions have "Buy It Now" options
Auto-extend: some auctions extend if bids come in late
Set reminders for auctions ending soon
Popular items get more bids near the end
Early morning endings often have less competition
Weekend endings typically see more activity
Quick Buying Tips
Stay Safe
Always meet in public places and inspect items before paying
Set Limits
Decide your maximum bid before the auction gets exciting
Watch Timing
Monitor auction end times and set reminders for items you want