Where to Sell an Old Computer

Getting rid of an old computer can prove challenging, especially if you would like to recoup some of the money you spent to purchase it. The obvious choices of garage sales or local auction house are only the first step. You can also attempt to sell the computer online, where you may receive more money than you expected.

Things You'll Need

• Canned air

Instructions

1. Clean up your old computer the best that you can. Begin by cleaning dirt and grime from the case and keyboard. Open the case and use canned air to blow out any dust from inside the computer housing.

2. Determine the specifications on your computer. You will need to know processor speed, installed memory and hard drive size. If the computer is running Windows, look at the main panel of the system under the Control Panel for this information.

3. Format the hard drive to remove personal information. Reload an older operating system on the drive if you have the disk available.

4. List the computer on eBay, making sure to let the bidder know everything that comes with the computer. Market the machine towards being used as a student or child’s computer. Start the bidding as low as you feel comfortable.

5. Do an Internet search for discussion boards and other groups for the manufacturer of your machine. These groups and boards often allow you to list your old computer for sale. The advantage is that for some brands, many people collect older models or use the parts to rebuild newer machines.

6. Ship the computer promptly after receiving payment. By having a PayPal account, the entire process of selling and shipping can be complete in less than a week in some cases.

Tips & Warnings

• By installing an older operating system on the computer, it gives selling the machine an edge, as it will be ready to go right out of the box.

• If you decide to sell the old computer at a garage or yard sale, have the machine up and running during the sale. This shows perspective buyers that the computer does work.

• For online listings, take a number of pictures of the machine from all angles and running. In the listing, include at least one picture and offer to send more by email.

• Having a PayPal account will give you more opportunities to sell. Many buyers prefer to use PayPal for payment. An account can also protect you against bad checks through the mail.

Resources

• A Discussion Board that offers a For Sale area
• A Discussion Board for IBM computer sales