How to Resell Used Books

Hard-to-find used books may garner higher prices.

Knowing the value of a good book can help put some extra cash in your pocket. Selling used books can be a profitable market to tap into if you are willing to do some research. Many college students and professionals within the education industry that are advancing in their careers sell used textbooks, novels or nonfiction works that they no longer need. The reselling process helps de-clutter their library and earn back a portion of the money they originally spent.

Instructions

1. Take care of the book. If you know ahead of time that you will not keep a book and will only use it temporarily, such as college students do for classes, try to preserve the book's current condition so that the resale value remains high. Use book covers to protect the binding and overall exterior.

2. Study the market. Browse second-hand stores and online markets in order to set a competitive price. You may have to set your price below the original sale price in order to sell the book and receive partial reimbursement.

3. Conduct research. Compare the different online websites and second-hand stores. Every business has a different offer, and it's in your best interest to make inquiries and investigate your options.

4. Separate your books into different piles. Paperbacks usually sell for a lot less than hardcover books, and it may be in your best interest to focus your energy on the books that provide the biggest financial return. Sell your paperbacks to your local second-hand store or college bookstore.

5. Lower your expectations for textbooks. The resale value for textbooks may not be as high as you anticipate due to new editions being published the following year. Comparison shop at a couple of stores, or online sites, but don't spend too much time, as the prices may not vary by more than a couple of dollars.

6. Negotiate your price. After narrowing down your buyers, try bargaining with the store's representative. Take into consideration that the store is trying to make a profit as well, and its initial offer may be flexible.

7. Change venues. If you do not like the prices being offered, don't feel pressured to sell the book to the first few buyers. There are multiple second-hand stores and online sites that may offer a better price.

8. Inform yourself of extra costs. If you decide to sell your books online, take into account any shipping or listing costs the buyer may add. If the online site requires that you pay for your mailing costs, try another website that may offer to pay for the shipping.

9. Sell special editions and rare books at online auctions. These venues provide a great opportunity to get the best price from competitive bidders.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can find rare books at garage sales, you can re-sell them for significant profits.

Resources

• BookScouter: Used Book Price Search
• Cash4Books: Sell Your Books