If you are going to work the auction house it helps to have a better idea what the prices player are going for so you don't get screwed like you mentioned. I would suggest looking for players by name. You'll get a better idea of what the going rate is for that player, and whether or not you're getting them at the cheapest price. Also, don't be afraid to use low amount in the AH search. Set the BIN price to 1000MT and the bid to about the same. You'll occasionally find some gems out there that some people are just looking to unload, or trying to secretly pass from one account to another. It is hard now to have a grasp on player prices because the prices are dropping daily. Guys that used to go for 20k a few days ago are averaging out at 7.5k now. So, if you see that 7.5k and think he's going for 20k, you might snatch him up, only to find out that the 7.5k is the new average. Take your time, and don't be afraid to use the old pen and paper to help you keep up with the prices.