Sell More, Stress Less

Online Alternatives to the Saturday Yard Sale

Story by Laura McGill

Who looks forward to spending days planning a yard sale only to get up early on a Saturday morning to deal with the guy who arrives early to nose around the garage while you get everything set up, or the lady determined to haggle over every price? All that hassle, and you’ll still likely wind up with less money in your pocket than you hoped.

Step away from those headaches with convenient online options. You’ll be in control, and you can spend your Saturday mornings sleeping in.

What to Sell

If you are trying to sell collectibles such as vintage records, trading cards, and memorabilia, eBay and Etsy are good choices. To sell your grandmother’s china, crystal, and silverware, start with Replacements Ltd., where you can search by pattern. There are even sites specializing in items like coins and currency or specific brands.

To sell designer clothes and accessories, explore options like The RealReal, Poshmark and ThredUp. Seller beware, though, as these sites often charge high commission rates and have restrictions on which brands they will buy. For the option of shipping or local pickup, look to Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local buy/sell groups.

Details Matter

Think about all the possible questions someone could ask about your item. Take photos from multiple angles using good lighting. Consider taking a video as well, especially if it helps show the item is in working order. Write a detailed description including all relevant information such as dimensions, weight, brand, color, size, and condition.

State the terms in the listing, such as price, payment methods accepted, and that it will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. When considering what price to ask, research comparable items. Know what the item costs to buy new, and leave room for negotiation.

Sell Safely

Selling online isn’t completely free of hassles. Be prepared for lowball offers and messages from people who never respond to your reply. Don’t be surprised if someone says they want the item but never shows up or cancels at the last minute.

Be aware of fake payment emails or overpayment scams. Ignore suspicious messages. Choose a safe, public location to meet. Your town may even have designated areas such as police station parking lots.

If the buyer is coming to your house, be cautious. Choose a safe time of day. Do not allow someone into your home. Instead, have the item sitting on your front porch or in the driveway. If you are alone, tell a neighbor what you are doing and ask them to keep an eye on you when the buyer is there.