Many of us dream about quitting the daily grind to start our own business but don’t know where to begin.
But with a little hard work and a nose for bargains, you can make some real coin in your spare time – maybe enough to replace your day job.
Here’s our closer guide on what to sell, how to list it and manage your fledgling eBay business.
What to sell on ebay
Many successful eBay businesses have found a niche such as first edition books and vintage toys.
But you don’t need exclusive or rare products to make money. Most eBay sales are for common household items you can pick up for less than £50 such as DVDs, sports equipment, kitchenware and kids clothing.
Sell products people upgrade on a semi-regular basis such as kettles, mobile phones and handbags. Watch out for discounted product lines and limited editions from popular brands.
Think ‘glocal’: acquire locally, sell globally.
How to list things on ebay
Pictures really do speak volumes.
Only use GOOD QUALITY pictures to market your goods. And lots of them.
Don’t post anything blurry or out-of-date if the product condition has changed. If you’re selling second-hand clothes, consider using a model. The same applies for furniture – make sure the setting does your product justice.
Invest in PC software that can help you edit and post pics quickly.
Make your ebay descriptions succinct and accurate
You only have 80 characters for each listing so make every word count. Put yourself in the buyer’s shoes and list what you think they need to know before parting with their cash.
Ensure your description is a fair and accurate representation of the goods to minimise returns – they chew up valuable time
Be mindful of SEO (search engine optimisation)
SEO is a simple principle – use words that are commonly entered in search engines like Google and your hits will soar.
If you’re selling second-hand designer bags, include the brand and style name, along with any celebs known for carrying said arm candy.
How to manage your ebay account
Do your research
Always research a market before your invest in any stock. Is there a market for the product you’re selling? Who are your competitors? What are the benchmark prices? You’ll soon learn how to make your offering stand out. And take advantage of eBay’s free listing periods where they waive the 35p insertion fee.
Timing is everything
List your top items on a Thursday to maximise weekend viewing time and always opt for the longest period unless your sale is time-sensitive.
According to eBay, Sunday evening is their busiest time, so aim to end your auction then.
Remember to check time zones if you’re selling more abroad than the UK.
If you’re selling clothes or household goods, think about seasonality. Learn from department store advertising on how to position goods for seasonal trends.
Ebay pitfalls to avoid
Wrap it like it’s hot
Don’t let yourself down with dodgy packaging. Buyers won’t accept damaged goods and you don’t want the hassle of managing multiple returns.
Don’t shill bid
Resist the temptation to bid on your own products to boost prices. It’s illegal and obviously not a true reflection of the product’s desirability.
Beware of the taxman
If you’re going down the buy-to-sell route – be mindful of your tax obligations.
Read HMRC’s advice about how to declare income from your eBay business.
If you’re self-employed, consider setting up a limited company and separate bank account to simplify your tax return.
Ebay success stories
Cathy Hayes
Was: NHS administrator, earning £28,000
Now: manages own eBay business, earning £100,000
Business model explained:
“During my lunch hour, I scoured eBay, looking at what sold well and recording the data on a research chart. I quickly realised that household paraphernalia — everything from garden tools and tents to kettles and toasters — were in demand. Armed with this information, I ventured out to car boot sales and markets, charity shops and fetes, buying up anything along these lines that I thought I could sell at a profit, all purchased with the money I had made during that first week. That became my business model — I’d use the profits from my sales to fund my next stock purchases.” Cathy has written a book about her experiences: “The Easy eBay Business Guide”.
Alison Abruneiras
Was: nail technician, earning £70 a week until breast cancer forced her to stop
** Now:** runs her own Nail and Beauty Emporium, grossing over £1m a year
Business model explained:
"I couldn't bear my whole world to be about cancer and chemo. I wanted a hobby to focus on.” Alison started with a foot spa she picked up for £10 at an end-of-line sale. “I wanted to see if I could sell it for more. And I did. Within a week, it went for £30 – a 200 per cent profit.” After such a positive start, Alison took a bigger chance on £3,000 worth of products from a wholesaler. "Within two weeks I'd sold nearly all of that too and more than doubled my money. "From then, it became an addiction. I'd be on the computer first thing in the morning and up until midnight."