Ebay vs. Auction Houses
 

I still believe for us non big timers (meaning those of us who pretty much max out at a $1000 an item give or take, but in general stay in the $100's for items/cards, the best value around is Ebay.

Not always obviously (see insane BINs), but you are much more likely to find a hidden gem of an item/card on Ebay and win it much less then u would at an Auction House.

However, there are some auction houses where you still can get a great find at a good price, but honestly they are the smaller ones (B&L, RR, Mears a few others). I think Heritage and a few others whether I am bidding against the rich or the house, it is unlikely I can walk away with an item and feel I got a good deal on it.

And those who find items at Antique or Estate Sales, like AC/DC says We Salute You!!!

I think for buyers, ebay auction-style w/ no starting price/reserve typically offers the best prices. However, a lot of the rare cards are never offered on ebay or only at a high BIN or starting price. Therefore for these types of cards you can still get a decent price at an auction house. Finally, auction houses offer a lot more lots, near sets, complete sets, which are typically rare for ebay, especially prewar.