10 Ways to Make Profits on Craigslist

Founded in 1995 by entrepreneur Craig Newmark, Craigslist has become the top destination for online classified ads. In addition to selling items, finding a new place to live or even securing a dream job, Craigslist has become a top destination for those who want to sell items and make money. Here are the top 10 ways to make profits on Craigslist.

1. Sell Used Household Items

Everyone has items around their home that they plan on gathering together for an upcoming yard sale or to donate to charity. You can put these items on Craigslist and make a profit. Appliances, electronics, arts and crafts supplies and more can easily be listed and sold to people in your community. Craigslist provides greater advantages than E-Bay as it isn't an auction site. You just list your item, add a photo and name your price. Many savvy entrepreneurs begin by selling their personal items, then realize there is great potential for a business and buy discount household items for cheap then resell them for a profit.

2. List Real Estate for Rent

Those with real estate in need of tenants can advertise their listings on Craigslist and easily find those interested in renting. Those selling brokered apartments in New York will be required to pay a fee for their ads but everyone else can post their ad for free.

3. Turn your Hobby into Profits

An easy way to make a profit and enjoy doing so is to turn your hobby into a profit. As hobbies are numerous and run the gamut, you can create things, sell your collectibles or post memorabilia items related to your favorite pastime for sale. Those who are hands on and create things with their hobbies can sell these items for free on Craigslist.

4. Advertise Your Business

Craigslist allows most users to post for sale ads for free. Those who are in need of cash can take advantage of these opportunities by putting ads for their businesses online. Instead of using the "for sale" section, you can add your business to the "services" section and post listings for your local area.

5. Sell Old Clothing

Weight changes, childbirth, outgrowing clothes for teens and children and simply changing fashions can leave many with a wardrobe full of clothes that are being neglected. You can post free ads on Craigslist advertising these clothes for sale and create a nice profit.

6. Sell Used Vehicles

A great way to sell a used vehicle is to connect with people in your local community and neighborhood. Make sure to take great photos of the exterior and interior of your vehicle to accompany your for sale ad. Some find that they can buy old and used vehicles for cheap, make repairs and fix them, then sell them for a profit on Craigslist.

7. Sell Antiques

Antiques are always a popular attraction and you can pick up items through yard sales, flea markets and on sale at antique shops in addition to your own personal antiques. These may be sold for a profit on Craigslist.

8. Sell Children's Toys

As children frequently outgrow their toys there is always an avenue to create a profit with these items. Be aware, however, that it is against the law to sell items that have been involved in a recall. Make certain that when you sell children's toys on Craigslist, you are selling toys that you know are safe.

9. Sell Video Games

Video games are hot and there is always someone willing to buy them. Once you beat a game, you may just end up leaving it in its game case collecting dust.

10. Group like Items Together to Sell

If you have a number of items you may find that you can make a greater profit by grouping like items together in order to sell, rather than selling items individually. Group your items together and offer them in a bulk deal for a great price and you're sure to make a profit.

When selling on Craigslist it's important to ensure you protect your safety first. There are a number of scam artists that operate on Craigslist and it's imperative that you make certain you remain safe. When you get a buyer, arrange a pick up location that is safe and in the open. Some sellers do not feel comfortable inviting strangers to their home. You can opt to meet with potential buyers in a well lit location and if you feel uncomfortable, bring a friend with you. The same safety methods that are recommended for buyers may also be used for sellers.