Things You'll Need:
- Internet connection
- Digital camera
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Step 1
Take as many high quality pictures as possible. If you are selling a vehicle, take the pictures when the vehicle has been newly washed and on a bright, sunny day. If you are selling a smaller object, make sure the background does not distract from the picture. The more pictures you post the better. It really does make a difference!
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Step 2
When you describe the item, be as detailed as possible. Often, identifying any imperfections gives you credibility and the buyers are more confident that you they will get the product you are advertising. The story is important! People often just post a picture or two of an item and a brief description not realizing that they are costing themselves money.
Describe how you purchased the item, how great it has been for you, why you are selling it, and give it a little narrative. Buyers will see more value in the item if you present it well and don't be afraid to sell the positive characteristics, but don't go overboard, people react negatively if they feel you are giving the item a hard sell! -
Step 3
I have found that pricing an item with no reserve at the absolute lowest price that you are willing to sell it for is usually an excellent strategy. The goal is to get multiple buyers bidding on your item at the last minute. Buyers are less rational in the heat of the bidding and will often pay more than they would under a low pressure scenario.
Pricing the item too high will discourage people from watching your auction and reduce the chance that there will be a fierce bidding war as the auction ends. -
Step 4
Target an end date of Sunday night or the end of a three day weekend. Friday and Saturday nights many people are out and not at home in front of their computers, and they tend to check out items on eBay during the weekend. Don't end it at 11 pm on Sunday because you will lose bidders who go to bed early for work on Monday morning. Also be aware of the East coast and West coast time zones. I have found that the ideal time is somewhere between 4 pm and 7 pm on the West coast, which is 7 pm to 10 pm on the East coast.
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Step 5
Good luck!
