Contact potential buyer during auction

It is allowed to view items before purchase and in fact many of the physical auction companies that list on here recommend it. The problem is that it's not allowed for either buyer or seller to post any form of contact details either directly or cryptically or links to contact details like websites, social media accounts etc in auction text, photos, members profiles, Q & A, Community pages or anywhere else on site, so unless you have ESP it makes it difficult. The only place it is allowed to place contact details is in specific fields that ask for it ie phone number field in some classified ads which usually have an email option too.

For members that wish to view first before buying, it's suggested that the buyer asks questions to satisfy themselves this is what they want if the listing photos and description are not clear. Some sellers might offer for the buyer to use buy now and if when they come to pickup and view, as they will have your contact details when they have bought, the item does not suit then they can cancel the trade, although this needs to be discussed and confirmed BEFORE the buyer buys. 

Kia Ora Mike and Fran,

TradeMe not being a Try before you Buy auction site doesn't allow for contact details to be exchanged for pre-inspections unless you have a Classified Listing in which contact details can be exchanged using the specific Listing fields.

In this case some Sellers will state to prospective Buyers if they purchase or win the auction but on viewing are unhappy to follow through with the purchase the Seller is happy to cancel the Trade. - As long as this is stated in the Listing / Q&A section, this forms part of the contract of Terms of Sale.

The Buyer is Best to ask as many questions as need be & the Seller is best to provide as many detailed photo's the Buyer is questioning & requesting to ensure all concerns are met & covered prior to purchase. - All the Best for your Sale! - Cheers.