Start out looking at those items around the house that you are not using, don't need and otherwise are considering putting out for a garage sale. Then go on eBay and do a search for that item...you will be AMAZED at what sells on eBay...everything! Let's say you have a toy your child has outgrown like their Weebles Treehouse and you search and find there are ones selling on eBay with bids starting at $10...you have a good item to put on eBay and make more money in most cases than you would have from the garage sale. I have sold old cellular phones, used purses, used shoes (good brand name in great condition), used game systems, clothes, you name it! This is also a great venue for selling items you may already love making (quilts, crocheted items, candy bouquets)!
Here are some tips to keep in mind to help you be successful:
- Establish your eBay account
- Establish a PayPal account
- Use a tracking sheet to help you track your success
- Search for the item on eBay first to help determine the market/demand, price, and best category...NAME BRANDS SELL BEST
- Take clear, bright pictures and at least two for additional views. If there are any flaws take pictures of those to disclose all details to potential buyers
- Now you are ready to list your item, use a detailed description and title. Be sure to disclose all flaws, but a word of advice if you are selling clothing don't try to sell items with stains or rips they won't sell and if they do you will get bad feedback.
- Choose the larger view option for your pictures...it is worth the .35 because when your item comes up in a list of results a buyer can hoover the mouse over your item's picture to get a better look
- Consider using a lower starting bid, if you start too high you won't really get many bidders...and let me tell you it is exciting when you have multiple bidders on your items!
- I have learned that the day of the week and the time of the day are big factors in your item selling and how many bids you will get. Weekends are best for an item to expire from auction and the later in the afternoon / evening the better.
- Recommend shipping insurance, and provide fair/accurate shipping prices
- Answer all questions during the auction promptly
- Thank your winning bidder, provide the invoice via eBay as soon as possible after the auction ends
- Ship your item promptly and pack it carefully
- Provide feedback on your buyer and if you have provided great service as these tips instructed you should get positive feedback from your buyer
