Listia: Like Ebay, but Free!

About two weeks ago, I stumbled upon this awesome auction site called Listia. Since then I have become addicted to it! But it's okay, because I'm not blowing any money! Listia is free to use, and instead of using cash to pay for your auctions, you earn credits by listing your own items, posting to your Facebook and Twitter, and just exploring the site.

In the past year, I've lost over 40 pounds by doing Weight Watchers. While I am so happy to be at a healthy weight now, the tightwad in me is bummed that none of my clothes fit anymore. So I'd been on the lookout for a way to get rid of my clothes but earn a little profit. Since so many of my clothes were either purchased second hand anyway, or they're not name brands, consigning them to stores like Plato's Closet is not an option. Well Listia is the perfect solution for me, because I can sell my clothes, earn credits, and then bid on new clothes and other items that I want.

Here is how it works. Let's say I have a shirt I no longer want. Just like on Ebay, I'm going to want to take pictures of it so my buyer can see what it looks like. Then I will upload the pictures to the Listia website, give my auction a catchy title, and write a little blurb about what I'm selling. I'll include my location and how much I'm charging for shipping. I get to pick the length of my auction and I can create a starting bid, up to 100 credits. Then I will sit back and watch the bids begin rolling in.

Like Ebay, I can give and receive feedback. I can choose my favorite sellers (called "becoming a fan") so I can revisit their auctions. Another neat feature of Listia is that you can earn badges for things such as listing a specific number of auctions and having a certain number of fans. It's a silly but fun way to show you have Listia credentials.

The only cost associated with Listia is shipping. Most sellers offer free shipping, so I've been having to pay when I take my items to the post office. But to me, that's such a tiny cost, because I'm getting awesome stuff in return. So far I have won a rooster charm, some teacher reward stickers, a seashell soap dispenser, 3 shirts, and a cat calendar. Everything imaginable is up for grabs on Listia! Some of my favorite categories are the pet supplies (including handmade dog outfits), coupons, clothing, books, and health & beauty.

Have a closet full of stuff you don't need but don't want to pitch? Then be sure to check out Listia at http://www.listia.com/signup/308580. You won't be disappointed!