I find it's best to test the waters early in the auction
if someone has already placed a bid.  If the auction is
new, your best option is a low max opening bid.

Everyone's strategy will differ; if you're just getting
started, choose your auctions carefully so you can build
a solid reputation.  It took me nearly 2 years to figure
ebay out, and if you feel comfortable in doing so, set
your ID preferences to remember your login for every
operation, that way, unless you remain idle for a long
time, you won't have to worry about the incessant logging in.