The Notebook Review forums were hosted by TechTarget, who shut down them down on January 31, 2022. This static read-only archive was pulled by NBR forum users between January 20 and January 31, 2022, in an effort to make sure that the valuable technical information that had been posted on the forums is preserved. For current discussions, many NBR forum users moved over to NotebookTalk.net after the shutdown.
If it is a retailer, check them out make sure they seem ok. Contact them if there is time before the auction closes. Where did the laptop come from? Is it B grade stock? Is it old stock? Base your judgment not just the answer the questions but also on general attitude - if they are reluctant to deal with you now, imagine how difficult it could be getting in touch if something goes wrong.
If it's a private individual - pretty much the same questions. Does the advert check out? Does it sound like someone who afforded a MBP and is selling on for a legitimate reason? Why?
In both cases read as much of their previous feedback as you can - some 'private individuals' turn out to specialise in selling dodgy knocked off electronics.
Unfortunately in my (UK) experience, after going through all this the only laptops worth bidding for can usually be found brand new at resellers for equivalent prices. I've picked up the odd camera on ebay with no problems. Never a laptop, and I will never buy (flash) memory again after being supplied a counterfeit.
If you're going to buy a used MBP I suggest you check out the Apple Store Refurbished section [For some reason I can't link directly to the refurbished section, you'll just have to check it out yourself]. I've heard nothing but positive comments about the Refurbished store. Many say their models are basically brand new, save the box that they are delivered in.
Problems? See this thread at archive.org.
