Selling Tips for eBay

Moving On Monday

After you've cleaned out your house and thrown away the trash, you are left with piles of items that are in good condition but you don't want any more. As stated earlier, you can donate them to your favorite charity, or try to sell them.

One way to sell your items is through eBay. And although the money sounds good, there is a lot of effort that needs to be expended to make it worth your while. Here are some tips for making your sales experience profitable and fun.

• Research your items before listing. What is the average sale price for your item's condition? How many others are selling the same thing? What are they asking? What are their shipping fees?
• Take quality photos. Use a good digital camera. Take photos from different angles--front, back, bottom or top if appicable, and close-ups of details.
• Write an accurate description. Be sure to include sizes, whether or not it has been used, and if it's new, whether or not there are tags attached or a box included. Always describe anything that is WRONG with the item. Be honest. If you are clear, people will still bid because they know what they are getting into.
• Write a descriptive heading. Select words that you think will draw viewers.
• Set a reasonable price. If you overprice, no one will bid, and your fees are higher. If you list too low, you risk selling it at that price.
• Accept PayPal. It's the safest, easiest way to get payment.
• Ship items as soon as possible after payment. Customers will be impressed and leave good feedback.
• Remember, the customer is always right (even if they aren't.)

Getting Rid of What You Don't Want

Moving on Mondays

How to Distribute Belongings You No Longer Want

Last week we talked about clearing out your clutter before you move. This will cut down on moving costs. But where should it all go?


That depends. If you want to try and make some money on your items, you can hold a garage sale, sell them on eBay, or take your possessions to a consignment store. You should consider this only if you have items of value in good condition. Selling a few knick-knacks for $1 or $2 at a time won't be worth the effort of a garage sale. Nor is selling on eBay after all the listing fees.

If you don't want to make money on your items, you can either donate them to charities, or list them on Craig's List or Freecycle. If you donate them, take photos of the items and get a receipt for your accountant to list as a tax deduction. Sites like Craig's List and Freecycle offers your items for free to anyone who wants to come and pick them up from you. (Note: You can also sell items on Craig's List and avoid listing fees.)

Books and magazines can be sold or donated. Second-hand book stores will pay you for your books, DVDs and CDs. You can sell these items on eBay, Half.com and Amazon. But be aware that after all the fees, you may make only a few cents per sale. Donations can go to places like libraries, assisted living facilities or prisons. Always check before you drop anything off.

Come back next week for eBay selling tips.