Clearing out unwanted items can be a great way to earn extra cash.
Whenever I feel the urge to declutter, I fill my car with items to donate—clothes the kids have outgrown, books we won’t read again, and other belongings my family won’t miss. Anything too worn gets tossed, while select items are prepped for online sale.
Inspired by the principles in Marie Kondo's book, "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up," I believe everything should spark joy. If it doesn’t, and it can bring joy to someone else, consider selling it online. After all, what’s unwanted to one person can be a delightful find for another.
For instance, a keyboard the kids barely used sold in a day. A camera I lost interest in went in just hours, and a sewing machine I never touched was snapped up in minutes.
While I typically set prices for quick sales, I’ve also made substantial amounts from larger items such as cribs and rugs. So, who’s buying? Facebook Marketplace boasts 1 billion monthly users. In urban areas, you can find everything from a $300 fish to multi-million dollar residences. eBay lists over 2.1 billion items, featuring everything from vintage books to collectible dolls.
There are numerous platforms to sell your items. For upscale clothing and accessories, consider ThredUp, Poshmark, and The RealReal. Here are ten effective strategies for selling online:
Identify What to Sell and Where
Clothing and home goods are top sellers online. If you have brand-name clothes, new items with tags, or gently used furniture, consider listing them. Ask yourself if it’s something you’d buy.
Community engagement expert Mandee Conkle suggests using Facebook Marketplace for furniture and outdoor items, while eBay works well for unique collectibles.
Local platforms like Craigslist or Facebook make it easier to sell most items, but for pricier items, you can explore various sites, just be mindful of selling fees.
Set a Fair Price
Check similar listings to determine a competitive price. Consider your goal: do you want a quick sale or are you willing to hold out for a higher price? You can always adjust your price later.
eBay and other platforms offer tools to help you price items. If uncertain, note in your listing that you’re open to offers.
Clean and Prep Your Items
Asking for money means your items should be clean and presentable. Dust them off, and if necessary, reassemble them. Remember, presentation matters in photos—your items should shine.
Capture Quality Photos
In our visual world, it’s crucial to post appealing pictures. “I always use bright, clear images that showcase the details,” Conkle advises. Remove distractions from the background and provide multiple shots for potential buyers.
Be Honest in Your Listings
Respect your time and that of the buyer by providing accurate descriptions. Be specific—include dimensions, brand names, and conditions. If there are flaws, disclose them with clear photos.
Respond Quickly to Buyers
Once you list an item, stay engaged. “Timely responses are key,” Conkle emphasizes. Be ready to answer questions and finalize sales promptly.
Timing Your Listings
Sell items during their peak seasons and consider bundling similar products together.
For example, list swimwear in late spring and winter coats in late fall. Grouping similar clothing items can attract more buyers.
Understand the Community Rules
Familiarize yourself with common selling terms like SOH (sold over hold) and FPPU (front porch pick-up). Each selling community has its own rules, so read them carefully before posting.
Watch Out for Scammers
Stay cautious—never share sensitive financial details and avoid accepting unusual payment methods. If a buyer appears vague or their communication is poor, it might be a scam.
Prioritize Safety
Always prioritize your safety. Trust your instincts. If you’re uncomfortable sharing your address, arrange to meet at a public place and consider bringing a friend. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to back out.
