How to Sell Items on Online Auctions

eBay and other online auction sites have become a valuable resource for people to make extra money, and even start their own home-based businesses. From handmade crafts, to vintage toys, more and more people list their items each day, and reap the benefits.

As with any business venture, online auction sites are always a gamble. You never know if your items will sell for what you're hoping for, or in some case, even sell at all. Until you can establish a loyal list of buyers and a long list of positive feedback, selling online can be very hit or miss.

In order to ensure your best chance at success, there are a few steps you can take to making sure you're getting the most out of your listings, and doing all you can to get your items purchased.

Check Out the Hidden Fees

Before you list an item on any website, be sure you read all of the terms and conditions carefully. There can be many hidden cost associated with listing items on these sites, and you have to make sure they don't cut into your profit too much. Some sites charge a flat rate for each item listed, and some take a percentage of the amount the item sells for. Some sites even charge you extra for posting extra photos of your item.

The bottom line is, beware. If your item sells for less than you expected, the listing fees could kill any profit you had a chance of making. Research carefully and keep a running list of fees associated with all sites you are considering listing with. This way, when you're deciding to post an item, you can go over the list and decide which site will be the best for you to list with for that particular item.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Sales

Great photos are the key to selling your items. On a recent forum poll on Etsy.com (a site devoted to the sale of handmade items) buyers stated "bad photos" as one of their number one reasons for deciding not to buy an item. A bad photo can really drive potential buyers away from your item, as it's their first impression of you and your quality as a seller.

Make sure your photos are in focus and well lit. Practice taking several shots against different colored backgrounds. Make sure to take shots of your item from different angles, so your buyers can have a complete picture of what it is you're selling. Select your best shots carefully, and feel free to crop, and touch up as needed.

Informative Descriptions

When writing your item description, be sure to include a lot of detail. Measurements are always key, from length, to height to weight. If the item has a specific model number, be sure to include it. If you made the item yourself, list all of the materials, and include a little something about the processes. If you're feeling creative, add your own fun flair to the description, tell a story, and make it interesting. Many buyers will get drawn in by creative writing. Just be sure not to get to nutty- stick to the item at hand, and make sure you're selling it, and not your writing talents.

Network

If the site you're selling on has forums, or other ways to network, take advantage of them. Getting to know people on a personal level is a great way to build an interest in you items, and to get good word of mouth advertising. You can also gain valuable knowledge and advice from other, more experienced sellers.

Promote Yourself

Make sure to tell everyone you know about any selling you're doing online. Send out a brief, friendly email to friends and family with a link to your online listings. If you have a blog, write a post about all of the items you're selling with helpful links. Have a MySpace account? Post a bulletin with your listings for your billions of friends to scope out. You are your own best source of free advertising. If you invest a little time and effort in spreading the word about your items, you are far more likely to sell something.

Appreciate Your Customers

When someone finally does purchase an item from you, let them know you appreciate it. Send them a thank you email right away, letting them know when you'll be shipping the item out. When you package the item, include a fun little "extra", whether it is a hand written thank you note, fun stickers, or a business card. If your customers feel appreciated, they are much more likely to purchase from you again. Don't forget to follow up with positive feedback for your buyer if the transaction goes well.