Selling your extra stuff on eBay

The economy's tanking, cash is tight at home, and there are seemingly few ways to quickly make a little extra money. But selling household goods — dare we say, junk — is a proven way, and spring cleaning can provide the perfect impetus. Options abound, from hawking items at pawn shops (where business is booming) to selling items online to hosting the old standby, the garage sale.

Garage and yard sales are alot of work!  Try selling on eBay while sitting in the comfort of your own home.  It's very easy and I can also answer many questions for you as well, through this blog.  I have been selling on eBay for 5 years and 2 of that was full-time.  My niche is books, but I have sold anything from my kids used footwear (as long as they are clean and gently used), jewelry, pocketbooks (coach), gift cards/store credits, misc.shipping supplies, specialty items, kitchenware (my Pampered Chef -still in the box and some used items), clothes to my daughters homemade duct tape bracelets!

Here's a few quick tips for you:

•Do some research. In many cases, all of your competitors' information is easy to see. Take a look at how others price similar items. Use keywords in your postings that helped previous sellers. But also look for ways to set your ad and item apart — the goal is to drive traffic to your sale.

•Take a picture. A professional-looking photo in an ad will help sell the item. Use a cloth backdrop to make your item stand out.

•Be honest. "It's OK to sell things that are chipped and cracked, but you need to be honest. "Show an additional photo so people know what they are bidding on."

•Mention shipping/pickup arrangements. This varies on eBay, for example, the seller is responsible for shipping items. You determine the shipping costs and arrangements in the listing. Be competitive but fair. 

•Remember that feedback occurs. On sites such as eBay, after every sale, buyers and sellers have the opportunity to comment. Feedback will affect future sales, so be honest and treat your listing and buyers like a business.

•Consider fees and payment options. EBay charges a listing fee, listing upgrade fee, a commission fee and a final value fee. Though small, they can add up. For example, a shirt listed in an eBay auction for $12, with pictures and bold font, will cost you $5 in fees. Though the site is not affiliated with eBay, you can calculate your fees at ebcalc.com. PayPal and other payment options allow sellers and buyers to trade products for cash without revealing either party's financial information. 

Let's Make Some Money, Honey!!