Whether you are looking to declutter your home so that you have more space, or you need to sell your stuff so you can pay down your debts and start building your wealth, when it comes to selling online, there are a few things that you need to know if you want to get the best prices for all of your items, and have as few headaches as possible. So, be sure to read on.
1) Not All Sites Are Created Equal
The first rule of selling your stuff? Pick the right place to list it. If you’re selling collectibles, eBay might be your go-to; for furniture or local-only items, try Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. Clothes that still look great? Try Poshmark or Depop, where fashion-savvy shoppers roam. Just remember: each platform has its quirks, fees, and audience, so make sure you’re in the right spot for what you’re selling. A lawnmower probably isn’t going to be a hit on Etsy, no matter how much flair you add to the listing.
2) Beware of Scams on eBay (and Everywhere Else)
Online selling can bring out the best buyers…and the sneakiest scammers. When it comes to scams on eBay, watch out for anyone trying to lure you into “off-platform” payments or offers that sound too good to be true. If a buyer wants you to use some bizarre payment method or claims they’ll “pay more” if you ship right away, run the other direction. Stick to eBay’s messaging system and payment process – otherwise, you could find yourself selling that rare vintage camera to a ghost who vanishes with both your item and the payment.
3) Price It Right (But Don’t Go Crazy)
Pricing is the trickiest part of selling online. Go too high, and your item will sit there collecting digital dust; go too low, and you’re practically giving it away. Check out similar listings to get a feel for market value, and try to avoid those $1 “starting bids” unless you’re genuinely okay with that outcome. Add a little wiggle room for hagglers if you’re on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace – they’ll appreciate it, and you might end up at the price you wanted anyway.
4) Photos Matter More Than You Think
Let’s be real: blurry photos are a major turn-off. Clear, well-lit photos are key to attracting buyers. Take pictures from multiple angles and, if you’re selling something with details (like a designer logo or a unique feature), zoom in on those. Natural light works best, so take advantage of it if you can. Think of it as online dating for your stuff – make it look good so people swipe right… or hit “Buy Now.”
5) Write Descriptions That Actually Sell
Sure, you could write “sofa, blue, good condition” and call it a day, but is that really selling it? Put a bit of effort into your description! Mention the brand, dimensions, condition, and any extra perks (like “pet-free home”). If you’re selling something like an iPhone, list all the specs – storage capacity, model number, battery health. And don’t forget to throw in a bit of personality! “Super comfy couch perfect for binge-watching marathons” is way better than “blue sofa.” A little pizzazz goes a long way.
6) Avoid Shipping Disasters
Shipping can be a nightmare if you’re not prepared. If your item is on the heavier side, calculate shipping costs ahead of time so you don’t get hit with a “Wait, it costs HOW MUCH to send this?” surprise. For smaller, valuable items, consider insurance and tracking – it’s worth the peace of mind. Also, skip the flimsy packaging. Bubble wrap is your friend, and so is a sturdy box. You don’t want that vintage record arriving in a dozen sad, shattered pieces.
7) Set Boundaries with Lowballers and Hagglers
Ah, the classic “Will you take $5 for this $100 item?” messages. Lowballers and hagglers are part of the online selling experience, but you don’t have to bend to every ridiculous offer. Politely decline, counteroffer, or just ignore the really out-there bids. Remember, there’s a buyer out there willing to pay what your item is worth – you don’t have to settle for pennies on the dollar.
8) Know When to Say Goodbye (and Relist)
Sometimes, an item just doesn’t sell. If something has been up for weeks without any bites, consider tweaking your listing – maybe new photos, a better description, or a slight price drop. And if it’s still not selling, don’t sweat it. Some things just aren’t meant to be sold online. Give it a go at a garage sale, donate it, or, if you’re feeling crafty, repurpose it!
Here’s to many successful sales in your future!
(Disclaimer: This content is a partnered post. This material is provided as news and general information. It should not be construed as an endorsement of any investment service. The opinions expressed are the personal views and experience of the author, and no recommendation is made.)