I don't use sniping software and get really annoyed when I know I have been sniped.
I usually enter my maximum bid at the start and if I really want it and know the value I may increase if I get out bid, not always though.
I watch quite alot so that way I know what items I am interested in and don't necessarily need or want now go for.
I rarely wait till the last minute unless it's something I suddenly come across for in a search and place a bid. As in I haven't watched it and then put in a last minute bid.

TBH I prefer more of the buy it now items these days. When I go to eBay I am usually looking for a specific item and know what I want to pay, I don't like the thrill of the chase, prefer just to buy it, pay for and get it.

I recently purchased a Little Golden Book-Betsy McCall Paper Dolls. It's in original condition with doll and clothes pages in tact. It's probably one of my prized purchases and I will be keeping it for DD when she is old enough to appreciate it. I got for $20 including postage, I have seen it on Amazon for between $30-$50 US dollars not including postage.