Selling Smart in 2007

For most of us, the first time we sell anything online is through eBay. What a great world! How cool is that? You clean your closet and find 12 things to list on eBay, and ten days later you’ve got $100 in your PayPal account!

One of my resolutions for 2007 is to sell first, buy later. I always feel like I’ve got a lot of auction savvy when I can pay for any eBay purchase with money already in my PayPal account as a result of my eBay sales.

In the coming year, I plan to make a big move – across the country. Before I do that I’m going to sell, sell, sell! Whether you are moving or just keeping up with your resolution to get organized, this is your year to make a small fortune on eBay.

You can do it!

If you don’t have a digital camera, do what I did and start with a disposable digital camera. Before you know it, you’ll have enough dough to purchase a utilitarian camera for less than $50. Once you do that, stop in at Staples and pick up some rechargeable batteries. The batteries and charger will pay for themselves after your first few sales on eBay. Plus, it’s good for the environment – no more throwing those alkaline batteries in the trash! (If you do have alkaline batteries sitting around, please know that you can recycle them at your local Whole Foods grocery store.)

Now, as far as your selling goes… start with an honest assessment of what’s in those drawers, cabinets, and storage boxes. Most of us have enough “extras” (all those things we didn’t re-gift at the holidays) to get started on eBay. Make sure to include every item from any past relationship – it’s just good feng shui! Open your world to new and better experiences in 2007.

Take a look at my column on making your auctions sizzle!

My resolution is to list everything I want to sell once, use the “relist feature” for items that don’t sell the first time around, and then make an inventory of what’s left over. Those items go directly to a local charity. It's just as wonderful to give as to receive.

All the best to you, my fellow eBay sellers.