Things to Watch Out For
There are numerous things that you learn to watch out for over the years, and most of these can be combated by simply asking questions of the seller.
Lack of Details / Images
Use caution when ordering books when little or no details / images are presented. Condition is a big part of a books value, and it can be subjective. If someone leaves out pictures of the edges you may not know until you receive it that it has a remainder mark or that the book has wear on the edge or dustjacket.
Return Policy
Ensure that the seller has a return policy. Especially on auction sites, you may see that the seller doesn't accept returns. The sites own return policy may or may not cover you in cases where the book is not exactly as described.
Signed Book Plates
You will see some listings as "Signed by Author" but in actuality it is a signed Book Plate that was later added to the book. You can get these Book Plates direct from the Sanderson Store for $1 each, whereas the listing may be charging a huge premium because they added the Book Plate. If the Book Plate is attached by the seller (glue or tape) it may even reduce the value of the book (as you can't remove it to get a real signature, so its defacement).
Wheel of Time - Signed by Author
Brandon finished the Wheel of Time series after Robert Jordan's death. The three books written by Brandon contain a "printed" signature of Robert Jordan. He did not physically sign the books but a lot of listings state that it is "Signed by Author" because of this and increase the price. You will want to ensure that these are actually signed by Brandon otherwise treat it as a normal unsigned book.
