Before buying cell phones, one should always exercise caution. There can be several things that can go wrong with a cell phone. Many people believe that buying a cell phone from a private seller located through an online classifieds is a good idea because one can get the phone at discounted prices. However, there is a chance that the phone purchased may turn out to be a duplicate of a branded phone or without adequate warranty and billing papers. Without adequate papers, you might find it difficult to get your phone serviced or sold.

These possibilities loom large but they are quite unlikely to materialize if you are careful while picking out a cell phone.

Before visiting a store, make sure you have done adequate research on the model you want to buy. Make rounds of 3-4 stores before deciding to buy the phone from one.

When the seller shows you a phone, make sure you check the following:

• Feel around the phone for dents, brushed paints and scratches on the camera’s lens.
• After you have inspected the body of the phone, open up the back cover and check the battery slot. If you are thinking of buying dual SIM phones, make sure both the SIM card slots work.
• Plug in your SIM card and make a phone call to a friend of yours. Check if there is a whirring sound while making the call or whether the call drops while you are talking. Ask your friend for feedback on the phone call.
• If you are thinking of buying a feature phone, check whether the keypad works well enough.
• Most cell phones are provided with wired headsets. Plug them in and test the sound quality of the ear phones provided with the phone.
• You should also test the camera before buying the phone. Choose a phone that has an LED flash so that you have clear photographs even in the dark. You can click a few pictures or videos and see how they have come out in the store.
• Check whether the package contains a warranty card for the cell phone.
• Lastly, before leaving the store, check the receipt you have been given. The servicing of your phone in case of any damage depends on the warranty card and the original billing receipt.
• When you reach home, plug your phone into the socket to recharge it. Keep it plugged in till the phone indicates you to switch the charger off. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to keep your phone plugged in with the charger for a whole day.

By following these simple tips, you can buy yourself good quality feature and smart phones. Nevertheless, buying your expensive cell phone from a private seller can be risky hence it is preferable to approach an authorised dealer for a sale. If you buy your cell phone from an authorised dealer, you will be sure of getting an original model and also proper servicing facilities from the company.