Article Source: EzineArticles.com
When its time to clean-up around the house, some people have a hard time
deciding what to keep and what to throw out. What they need is an incentive.
How about collecting cash from stuff that was collecting dust?
You can do this by auctioning-off your unwanted or no longer needed items on
eBay. eBay is the largest online market place of its kind. If you are
considering this, then you need to gain some basic knowledge of the listing
process.
Here is a 10-item checklist to go over before you begin selling:
1. Look at Other Seller Listings
Do a search for your item. See how other sellers list the same or similar
item. Take mental note of the category, the title, the description, the photo
and the pricing.
2. Choose the Most Appropriate Category
Make sure your item is in the most appropriate category. Avoid placing it in
a category where it doesn't belong. List your item in the wrong category, and
people looking for your item will not find it. Let eBay suggest the category for
you, if you are unsure which category your item belongs.
3. Write an Accurate Title for Your Listing
Make it easy for buyers to find your item in a search by writing a precise
title of it. Be as exact and detailed as possible so your item can show up in
broad keyword searches too. Avoid using hype words like "Best," "Great," or
"Fantastic." Putting these words in the title will not help buyers find your
item because they don't type in these types of words in their searches.
4. Set Your Price Low
Entice your buyers by starting at a low price. Set a reserve price in your
listings so you don't have to sell it when the auction ends at too low of a
price for you to make a profit.
5. Give Plenty of Time for Your Auction
Let as many people as possible see your auction. Set the duration for five or
seven days so weekend buyers will have a chance to bid on your item too.
6. Show a Photo of Your Item
Take a digital photo of your item and post it with your listing. Let your
buyers see what they are bidding on. Allow the photo to help you sell it. Having
to see something first before you buy it is only natural. Apply this same
principle to online auctions. Buying a digital camera is a good investment these
days and instructions on loading pictures up to the eBay site are simple enough
that there really is no excuse not to have a picture.
7. Give Buyers Plenty of Payment Options
Make it easy for the buyer to pay. Providing as many payment options as
available is better. Place in your item listing your own merchant account or
credit card processor information. Sign up with Paypal if you don't have your
own merchant account. Let buyers pay by check or money order if you don't
provide payment through Paypal or credit cards. Including all payment options
leaves no buyers behind.
8. Be Clear on Shipping and Handling Information
Avoid troubles or negative seller feedback by stating upfront your shipping
costs. Mention this clearly in your listing. Include your return policy.
9. Give Contact Information
Gain the buyer's trust by freely stating your contact information. List your
email, phone number or mailing address.
10. Keep on Testing
Review the auctions that have ended. Learn from the wins and losses. Try
changing the category, title, description or price if it didn't sell. Testing
the individual elements in the auction process is critical to your goal of
becoming a successful auction seller.
(c) Leroy Chan - All Rights reserved
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