Do you have things you want to buy and sell online, but don’t know where to start? These tips will help you get the price you want for the items you seek and sell the items you have without settling!
I have been buying and selling things online for years now. When I say ‘online’, I’m not meaning through Amazon. Shopping on indoor yard sales, craigslist, or other online yard sale sites is how we buy and sell many things.
Why?
Declutter
Maybe you have a desire to try living a more minimalist lifestyle. Maybe you have extra items you are storing that you haven’t touched in years! Instead of just donating them to a thrift store, why not try selling them online first?
Save Money
Buying used can save SO much money. Oftentimes, people change their style or interests, but the item is still in perfectly usable condition. Rather than buying new, you can get a much discounted price for a great item simply by purchasing the item used.
Save Time
Shopping online on the indoor yard sales can also save you time. You can filter your search by area, price, and specific item. Although I do love thrift store shopping, browsing the entire thrift store, you just might exit the store with more than you actually needed.
Since I have done this for awhile now, I wanted to share some tips on things you should know when buying and selling items online
How to Buy and Sell Online like a Pro
Know the Market
Before I post an item, I will browse prices of the item similar to what I am selling to make sure I have a comparable price. If your item is priced too high, no one will be interested. If it is priced too low and people purchase it and talk about what a great deal it is, you may feel a little seller’s guilt after. When buying an item online, I will do a search of similar items in the area. This way I know if the price I am getting is a fair price. Comparing quality of similar items at a similar price is a good way to know if you are getting a good deal too.
Know the Season
Different things will sell better at different times of the year. If you are wanting to sell toys, December (for Christmas) is a great time to sell them! Sell sports equipment right before and during that sport season. All home decor and clothing will sell much better during their intended season or holiday as well.
If you want to get rid of a bunch of winter snow gear, you may have a hard time selling it in the middle of the summer. If you are looking to buy these season specific items, you will have a larger selection if you buy in season as well. That being said, people have birthdays every year and may be looking for just the item you are selling.
Know the Negotiation
People like a bargain. Keep that in mind as you price your item to sell. If you are not willing to take lower than the comparable prices at the time, now may not be the best time to sell. Always price higher than you want to sell the item. Some people will take it at face value, but most will negotiate a bit.
Be willing to be flexible if you are desperate to be rid of the item, or if you have had it listed for awhile. Know that most sellers also price their items with a little wiggle room and may be willing to come down on the price. If you are not comfortable with face to face negotiation, do it by phone before you arrive. Also, determine beforehand how you will accept payment (cash, Venmo, check, etc).
Selling your Items Quickly
- Always post good pictures. Have good lighting and show the item from different angles. If you are selling a clothing lot, group like items together and photograph more than one at a time. For example: 5 shirts together, 3 pairs of pants in another picture.
- Be open and clear about any damage and condition of the item. If something is broken, don’t hold your breath and hope they don’t discover that. Be an honest seller. You wouldn’t want to get home to find surprise damage to your purchase.
- Provide the fastest way to contact you. Whether it is text, email, or phone call, put the best way to contact you as the main contact.
The last piece of advice would be to set an expiration date on your items. I usually give myself 3 months. If something hasn’t sold in that time, I will take it to a thrift shop, or ask neighbors and friends if they want/need it before it is donated.
What tips and tricks do you have for buying and selling online?
