Gosh, I feel bad Nickels_rule - sorry I missed your post! Yes, generally you don't start bidding until the timer reaches zero. I'd post up a couple of links with info to help understand, but I don't want to get in trouble with the mods here.
I'll say this though, you can use the site navigation to find About CoinSniper, How CoinSniper Works, take the CoinSniper Tour, and find CoinSniping Tips. There's a lot more, but that's a great start. Also, when you sign up I send you an email with links to information.
If I've said anything I shouldn't, please let me know and I'll modify the post.
My recommendation is to watch a few auctions, then you'll get the hang of how it goes! : )