SELLING online can put some handy cash in your pocket, but there are some important tips for potential sellers hoping to make a long-term profit.
Managing director of web-based auction and sale site OzFreeOnline, Nick Smith, said many people had been so successful at online selling they had given up work and were making a living out of it.
But someone just starting out had to remember the internet was just another medium, not “a technological beast”.
“At the end of the day they need to look at it as purely an online newspaper,” Mr Smith said.
He said people could sell virtually anything online and with OzFreeOnline there were no fees and charges.
Worldwide online auction house eBay has some important tips for new sellers. It recommends researching listings of similar items, clearly photographing items, putting as much detail as possible in listings, and packing sold items quickly and promptly.
EBay spokeswoman Sian Kennedy said the site had a 90-day history of sold items, so potential sellers should check what similar items were selling for.
“You can see the kinds of descriptions people use, the photos they take, the starting and ending prices and all that will help you decide whether you want to list your item on eBay,” she said.
Ms Kennedy suggested people should buy a few items first to understand how the site worked, and start with a small item to sell initially.
“If you’re a first-time seller we actually recommend you start really small with a couple of low-value items and list one item at the lowest price you’re willing to accept for it,” Ms Kennedy said.
“Start with low-value items and work your way up.”
She said honesty was very important for sellers.
“The more honest you can be the more people are likely to trust you,” she said.
“If it does have a scratch or dent or missing part, mention it and also take really accurate photos – people don’t mind because often they’re getting a bargain.”
Ms Kennedy said people selling on eBay paid a listing fee as well as a percentage of the final value, or final value fee.
She said online sellers were less exposed to possible scams than buyers, with no requirement to send the sold item until payment in full was received.
“It’s highly unlikely there’s going to be an issue if you’ve received the money,” she said.
Mr Smith said OzFreeOnline had dedicated staff checking listings to ensure they met standards and weren’t fraudulent.
However, he said in some cases “a scammer” might email a seller trying to get bank details as well as other personal information that could potentially be used in identity fraud.
