How to Sell Stuff You No Longer Need

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills

Getting Started

Assess Your Time: - Selling can be time-consuming. Consider hiring a pro organizer ($75–$100/hour) or donating items to resale shops if you’re short on time.

Safety First: - Check recalls.gov to ensure items are not recalled—it’s illegal to sell such products.


Finding the Right Buyers

Choose the Best Platform: - Platforms vary by effort, cost, and target audience. Match the item to the right site for maximum returns.
- For high-end furniture, try AptDeco; for clothing, Poshmark; for local sales, Craigslist.

Effort Levels: - High-effort: Platforms like eBay offer wide reach but require detailed listings and shipping coordination.
- Low-effort: Local platforms like Facebook Marketplace involve fewer steps but require in-person meetups.


Creating Listings That Sell

Price Strategically: - Research sold items on platforms to determine market value. Consider auctions for in-demand goods.

Write Detailed Descriptions: - Use clear, keyword-rich headlines (e.g., “Women’s medium navy blue V-neck cardigan”) and disclose flaws to manage buyer expectations.

Include Quality Photos: - Use multiple, well-lit angles. Style items where appropriate (e.g., flat-lay clothing or staged furniture).

Be Responsive: - Prompt replies to inquiries build trust. Enable alerts for quick communication.


Top Reselling Platforms

eBay: - Specialty: Electronics, small appliances, collectibles.
- Fees: Free for up to 250 listings/month; 3%+ commission.

Poshmark: - Specialty: New and used clothing, accessories.
- Fees: $2.95 under $15; 20% for sales above $15.

Craigslist: - Specialty: Local, general items.
- Fees: Free (some exceptions).

Facebook Marketplace: - Specialty: Furniture, women’s clothing, toys.
- Fees: 5% or a minimum of $0.40.

AptDeco: - Specialty: Furniture and home decor.
- Fees: Up to 48% commission.

The RealReal: - Specialty: High-end handbags, clothes (Chanel, Gucci, Hermès).
- Fees: 20%–70% commission.


Safety Tips for Selling

Keep Transactions on Platform: - Avoid off-platform discussions or deals to prevent scams.

Meet in Secure Locations: - For in-person exchanges, meet at police stations or public places. Use SafeTrade Spots for monitored areas.

Accept Secure Payments: - Use services like PayPal or Venmo. Avoid personal checks or money orders due to fraud risks.


When Selling Becomes Taxable

  • If your total sales on any platform exceed $600/year, you may receive a 1099-K form starting in 2023. Report profits for items sold above their purchase price.

Turn clutter into cash and enjoy a cleaner, more organized space!


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