If I see something I really want I will not bid until the last seconds (I put a reminder on my electronic calendar when it is going to end). If I just casually want it (indifferent) I will throw out a soft bid and maybe win maybe lose (generally lose).

Before I snipe I KNOW what the item is worth and if it passes that I don't bid. Bidding early intices others to bid 'just a few cents more' then 'just a few cents more' before long the item is way past wht it is worth (sellers LOVE that). If an item gets no intrests then it is possible to get to for a fair or reasonable price if you snipe.

MANY MANY times I bid on an item in the last 2~5 seconds only to find six other people did the same! LOL Five of them really get suprised!

The best idea I have heard that is fair for everyone is that the auction closes at XX time or 5 minutes after the last bid. So you always have 5 minutes to bid... like going, going and GONE! You have a few minutes to poop of get off the pot! LOL Wonder why eBay doesn't use that? Would be more commission and happier sellers and stop sniping altogether.