Strategies for Using Auction Sniper:
1) Don't show interest in the item by placing a regular bid. It doesn't matter what you call it--a feeler bid or a nibbler bid--don't do it.
and the very obvious
2) Don't increase the leadtime to more than 8 seconds.
Strategies for Finding Items or Getting a Good Price:
3) Check new listings for a better deal with an auction ending sooner (or with "buy it now"). Check other sites, such as half dot com, amazon, craigslist, and swap boards to get the lowest price.
4) Get educated on search options, such as using ()'s, *'s and -'s to search items and descriptions and uncover poorly listed treasure.
5) Check completed listings for items that didn't sell. If you find what you want, encourage the seller to relist.
6) Check online reviews. You may discover the item you wanted is kind of crappy, or find an alternate item in your price range (or worth searching for on eBay) with great reviews.
Can you add to the list?