How to Be a Successful eBayer

eBay has been around for 9 years now (10 if you include the one year the company existed before changing its name to its current one) and still one of the hottest spots on the web for anyone searching for a deal, or, in your case, anyone wanting to make money. However, despite the oft-used phrase, "someone's junk is another person's treasure," there is a misconception that "anyone can sell anything on eBay." Not true, my friend. Below, we'll give you some tips to become the PowerSeller you want to be.

1.) Research This is by far the most important part to eBay (or any other sales venture, for that matter.) You have to know your product. That means, you have to know where it's from and what it's worth. Some people make a business out of eBaying - they buy products for the sole purpose of turning them around by internet auction in a short amount of time. If this is your plan, it is imperative to know what to look for. One successful eBayer says, "It's all about the brands. If you know what people are willing to pay for some items, you'll only look for those manufacturers. That saves you a lot of time."

2.) Be Unemotional This is easier said than done. Sure, to you, there's a big difference if you're selling a newborn onesie you just found at "Once Upon a Child" for $0.50 or if it's the outfit you brought your newborn home in. But to your buyer, unfortunately, that doesn't much matter. If you've made the choice to sell something, stick to that decision, and do not waver, or else you'll get a lot of "no reserve met" responses.

3.) Price It Right This goes hand-in-hand with research. If you've really looked into your item, then this should be a piece of cake. Consider 4 things: what it's worth, what you paid for it, what you could reasonably get for it, and how low you're willing to go. Obviously, you never want to lose money on an auction, but some people think eBay is only worth doing if you can make $30+t. Let's consider one example. Say you bought a nice woman's skirt at TJ Maxx or Marshalls or Ross. Because it's a great brand, the skirt from a department store could be worth $100 (and may even say so on the tag!) However, you only paid $3 during an incredible clearance sale. Reasonably, you could see anyone who likes this manufacturer paying $20-$25 for it, no problem. (After all, it saves them a trip to the mall!) But, you're willing to go as low as $15 for it. Then that's a good place to begin. Start the auction there, and watch your bids go up. Even if you just get one bid, that's still 500% over your cost.

4.) Be Descriptive Don't scrimp on the words. This is where you can really excel over other sellers. Some people just don't understand the art of sales. You have to accentuate the positive. If it's a great brand, say so. If it's new and there are still tags attached, mention it. If you have accessories you're willing to throw in, tell them. Moreover, a picture says a thousand words. Take use of the free photo you get when placing an item up for auction. And take time framing the photo - it makes a big difference.

5.) Say "No" to Unnecessary Extras Unless you have a special circumstance, if you're just starting out eBaying, you probably don't need extra services such as "Buy it Now" or listing upgrades. These cost money and will eat into your bottom line. Even putting a reserve on costs extra, so really weigh the pros and cons of such an action. The same goes for extra pictures - unless they really will help you sell your item, eliminate them and their fees.

6.) Don't Set Yourself Up For Fraud Do not accept bids from sketchy-sounding buyers. Some eBayers even choose to only take money orders or cashier checks, as this cuts down on the possibility of fraud. If you feel like paying the money upfront for a service like PayPal, this offers more security. Also, it's a good idea to only accept bids from buyers with good feedback.

Wishing you many happy (and profitable) auctions!