Have you considered using a 'bid sniper'? I use Goofbid: http://www.goofbid.com/
It's free, easy to use and stops you getting carried away and placing silly bids :). I normally decide my bid amount and select a five second lead in. Some think it's unfair, but I don't see it that way. After all, you can still be outbid. It also has the advantage of not showing your hand and encouraging others to try and outbid you. I've won a few goodies with it.

