My buffer is set to 3 seconds...I was was highest bidder presumably with 3 seconds left...then I lost. Did someone snipe with a shorter buffer? How could I have lost with 3 seconds left? Should I set buffer to 1 or two seconds? Advice?
Thanks, bob

You did not include the item number so I can't tell you why you lost.
My guess is that your bid was too low. If someone else bid higher, it has nothing to do with how many seconds you snipe.

Here is the item number #170606344120. I think I'm beginning to understand and I think you are right. Even at 0 seconds left, if soemone proxy bid higher it will win.
If you find otherwise please let me know.
Thanks for making a snipe program that works.
bob

Yes, this is exactly what happened: someone bid higher.
His/her snipe was prepared long time in advance and was not a reaction on your snipe.
So keeping your time at 3 seconds should be fine for your snipes (although, I recommend 5 seconds just in case to handle some network lags during peak time).