Any experienced eBay seller will tell you that it’s getting harder to sell on eBay every day, due to the constant influx of new sellers and lower prices with increased competition. However, the same sellers will also agree that there is still a lot of money to be made on eBay. The key to earning income on eBay is learning how to sell smarter and increasing your profits.
1. Research, research, research. Prices and fashion items on eBay change every month. As a seller, you must learn to constantly research closing auctions to see what is selling for high prices. Don’t make the mistake of buying random things at yard sales or auctions, thinking that because they’re “old” or “good brand” they’ll fetch a high price on eBay. The market may be saturated with your “big find,” and you will have wasted time and money.
2. Be sure to focus on a particular market. Don’t have a hodgepodge of auctions ranging from baby clothes to valuable antiques. People like to know that they are buying from someone who specializes in selling a particular item. Also, people will come back to you if they know what you are selling and are satisfied with your service and product. They’re not as likely to become repeat shoppers if one week you’re selling scrapbooking supplies and the next week you’re selling baby formula.
3. Open an eBay store. This is the best way to get business from buyers who prefer not to wait for an auction to end. If you sell printer ink, chances are your customer needs it now, not later. If you don’t have an eBay store, they will probably move to someone who does. Also, an eBay store is a wonderful place to put items that didn’t sell the first or second time you listed them in a regular auction, since the listing fee for a store item is minimal per month.
In conclusion, making money on eBay means changing with the times and constant research. Like any business, success may not happen overnight, but it is possible for those who are willing to learn and work hard.
