How to Make Money From Trash

Have you ever been to a garage sale and found a few bargain items? If you have, then you are on your way to learn how to make money from trash. Making money from trash can mean that you can spot valuable second-hand items that other people discard (such as garage sale items), or that you literally recover moneymaking items for recycling and cash.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn the difference between valuable items and common items. Antiques and collectibles have greater resell value than common items. Visit a local library to learn what constitutes valuable resell items.

2. Visit garage sales and second-hand item stores. It is not only fun to visit garage sales and second-hand stores; you will find enormous variety in the goods and items you encounter. Look for jewelry, old books, or fine china.

3. Purchase an item you feel may have more value than its price. Engage the seller in conversation about items you want to purchase to learn if he or she can provide you with any information. Maybe an item was from an estate sale, or just discarded by some wealthy eccentric. Oftentimes people have valuable items in their homes left to collect dust, and they are not aware of the item's value. The point is to gain a history, if possible.

4. Calculate where you will get the most money on the resell. You may want to open an account as a seller on e-Bay, or visit an antique or consignment store. If you have done your research, and have found a valuable item, you must learn how to gain the most money for that item on resell. Sometimes this will come by trial and error.

5. Keep a journal or electronic record of your items, purchases prices, and resell gains. If you are successful in your new business venture, you may even want to publish your findings.

6. Have fun with your new business venture.

Tips & Warnings

• As in any moneymaking endeavor, try not to purchase goods for sentimental reasons. Limit yourself to items that gain you money.
• If you choose to focus on recyclable items, learn the best sources for collection and redemption. Visit your local library to gain information about recyclable, moneymaking items in your area.