A Beginner's Guide to Selling on eBay

You've been buying on eBay for a while and naturally, your thoughts turn to selling your own items. Yet, you're not quite sure where to start. First, you will need to sign up as a seller and provide all the information asked for and a credit card number. Once that is complete, you're ready to begin listing your items. Below, I've outline ten tips that will help make your auctions a success and reap you better profits from your sales.

1. Your title should be authoritative and tell exactly what the item is. Instead of saying Turkey Platter, list specific info such as Turkey Platter, stoneware, late 70's and maker. You are limited to around 80 characters for your title, so be sure to choose it wisely. Avoid words like 'look', 'must see' etc., as most experienced eBay shoppers don't pay attention to them.

2. Choose the category for your listing carefully. With hundred of different categories to choose from, this can be a bit difficult to determine. If you feel your item fits in more than one, feel free to select a second category. More than one category does incur extra fees, so be aware of that as you list.

3. A picture is worth a thousand words in an auction listing. All items need at least one picture. Higher priced items need more than one. Use a good quality digital camera or a scanner if the item is flat. Proof your pictures to make sure they are clear and crisp, crop where needed.

4. List all the details of your item in the description box. Be sure to point out any flaws in the item. Think of any keywords that you would look for if you were searching for the item and include those in the description. Also list what payments methods you will accept, how long the buyer has to get payment to you and what shipping methods you will use.

5. Determine the lowest amount of money you will take for your item and begin the bidding at that amount. Think about using a 'Buy It Now' price if you're willing to let the item go for another few dollars above your opening price. Avoid using 'reserve' auctions as many eBay buyers will skip over them as not worth the time and effort.

6. Choose your listing time wisely. Many sellers feel that eBay has a higher traffic ratio on the weekends. Some feel that Sunday afternoons (between church times) are best, while others close their auctions late on Friday or Saturday night.

7. Answer any questions that you receive from potential buyers promptly. Some buyers may ask for a clarification on your listing or additional pictures. Be ready to provide them the information they request.

8. After the auction has ended, make sure you correspond with your buyer. eBay will send you notice to your email account of how much the item sold for and the email address of the high bidder. Keep the lines of communication open until everything about the transaction is complete.
9. After receiving payment for your item, ship it promptly by the stated method. Send an email to the buyer to let them know their item is on its way. You can leave feedback at this point or wait until the item is received and the buyer posts feedback for you.

10. If you plan to do a lot of selling on eBay, you may want to consider signing up for a PayPal account. Many eBay buyers only purchase items from those sellers that do accept PayPal as a payment method. It is free to sign up and all you will need is a checking account.

Selling on eBay can become addictive and for some a very lucrative venture. If you find that you enjoy the online garage sale, you may want to download eBay's Turbo Lister to help make listing your items much faster. Good luck with your eBay selling experience.