Sell your unwanted stuff

Craigslistand Kijiji: These sites are great because it’s free to list your items for sale there! They’re also very popular sites, so items tend to sell pretty fast. Another great one is checking out your local city on facebook. Search your area for a free group to sell and buy your wares.

Tips for making a fast sell and getting what you want for your stuff:
1. Do your research. Spend a few minutes poking around on the site before posting your ad. See if the same item as yours, or a similar item, is posted and check the asking price. This will give you an idea of a good price for your item.

2.Take a great photo(s)of the item. Before you snap, make sure your item is sparkling clean and positioned in good lighting. If the item has pieces/accessories accompanying it, take a photo of each piece. You’ll also want to show what the item looks like as a set. Example: you’re selling a set of china. Take a representative photo of each piece standing alone (saucer, cup, dinner plate, etc.). Also take a photo of the pieces grouped together in a place-setting. And show ALL the pieces in the set laid-out, so that the prospective buyer can get an idea of what the full set looks like when arranged.

3. Come up with a great ad headline.On these sites, your item will be listed among hundreds, maybe thousands of other listings. Since the headline is the first thing a would-be buyer sees about your item, you need a strong headline. Example: instead of “Elgin Swiss Watch,” try “Women’s Elgin Swiss Watch in Mint Condition.” Be specific about the item and use words that make your item appealing (yet make sure the words are true!).

4. Write a good item description. Spell-out the details of your item. For example, if vintage, include the manufacture year and any series number if possible. Include specifics like item dimensions, type of material(s), any defects, etc. Again, this is where researching other listings can be helpful to see what others have included in their posts. Be as descriptive as possible without writing a novel. Bullets are a good idea.

5. List payment specifications to avoid surprises. If you’ll only accept cash, list “Cash only, please.” If you are firm on the price, be sure to list by the price: “Price is firm” or “non-negotiable.” If you’ll negotiate, list “OBO” (or best offer).

Remember, always use correct grammar and spelling to portray a professional image. Your item will usually sell much faster if you craft a high quality ad. The thought: if your ad is professional, chances are your item is well cared for and worth buying.

Once you’ve snagged an interested buyer:
1. Respond promptly.This means replying as soon as you receive the email, if possible. If your response is delayed, the would-be buyer will likely move on. If you want to sell your item fast, respond fast.

2. Keep cool.Someone may say they want to buy your item(s), but that doesn’t always mean they will. It’s pretty common to be stood-up by prospective buyers. Not the end of the world; just move on to the next prospect in line. As such, wait to delete emails from interested buyers until your item(s) sells.