Leahey.org

EBay’s fees have been steadily increasing over the years, almost in perfect synchronicity with their growth in popularity. Even at the current (in my opinion) rather-high prices, there is no place better to unload your used stuff. Where else can you reach a worldwide customer base with millions of users? When trying to get the most for your item or items, I have found there are a few key things to remember:

Sell it ASAP: If you just bought the new iPod 3d Video Xbox 360 Gaming Device, don’t wait too long to sell your old iPod video. More times than I care to count I have waited a few months to sell my now-obsolete item, only to take an enormous loss. At the same time, don’t put your item up the instant a new version is announced, wait a week or so, and check what its going for.

Include competitors in the subject line: Yes, its shady, but the world of online-auctions is no place for half measures. When posting your Creative Zen Nano for sale, consider putting something like “Creative Zen Nano NOT iPod Nano” in the subject line. This way, your auction will get both searches for “Zen Nano” and “iPod Nano”. Who knows? You may get a user wishing to save a few (hundred) dollars on the iPod, and get a bid.

Include typos: When posting your Kalashnikov rifle for sale, consider including a few variations on the spelling in the subject line. “Kalishnakov”, “kalieshnakov”, not everybody can spell everything.

Take clear photographs: Yes, TAKE clear photographs. This does not mean use stock photos. Bidders want to see pictures of the item they’re actually purchasing, not what it might have looked like new. Be sure to clean the item up as best you can before taking the photo, find a good backdrop, something that keeps the focus on the item for sale. Your floral tablecloth is not a good bet. Keep it simple, white, black, or wood. Be sure to include at least 2 photographs of the item, from different angles.

Use the gallery: I think its $0.50 extra, it may actually be less. Including your item in the gallery allows bidders to see its picture in search results. I don’t have statistics to back me up, but I would bet items included in the gallery sell for at least 20-30% more than those that are not.

Post the shipping: Sellers love to jack up the price of shipping. Its an easy way to make a few extra bucks on the item post-sale. This causes bidders to be weary of bidding on items that do not have a firm (or calculated) shipping posted. Be sure to account for the price of the box you will need, and any packing materials you will be using to insure the item arrives safely.

Accept Paypal (ref): Paypal has been around for quite a while now, but it still amazes me how many eBay sellers do not accept it. Very few people want to be bothered mailing a money order or check, and having to wait an extra 7 or 8 days before receiving their item. Accepting instant payments via Paypal is a good way to attract additional bidders. Not to mention its easier for you, items can be paid for instantly, and you can have the proceeds in your checking account within 4 days.

Be honest: Most importantly, be honest. Lying about the quality or condition of your item may get you a few extra bucks on the auction, but in the long run you will pay for it. Receiving negative feedback is the surest way to reduce your chances of getting a high-bid in the future.