One of the biggest things we hear when we go through the purging process with clients is, “I never wear that, but it was so expensive!” or “That’s my grandmother’s and I hate it, but it might have value.” Our solution? Let it go but get something for it! We’ll be the first to say that selling items online isn’t always easy. It takes time and effort, and you first need to decide if that’s time and effort you want to spend, rather than just loading up your car and dropping things off at your local donation center. If you do want to try to sell items online, keep reading and we’ll share everything we’ve learned. 

One: Pick your platform

We have had the most luck with selling clothes on sites including Poshmark, Thred-Up, and The RealReal. Each are a little different, but all are worth a try. For furniture, we find Facebook Marketplace and Chairish are best. Another option we love for selling online when a client is moving or seriously purging their home is MaxSold. Their team will come to you and photograph your items from antique China to planks of wood in your backyard! They price everything for you, post it online, and all buyers have one specific pick-up day to claim their purchases. We’ve seen some pleasantly surprising returns using this method!

Two: Post quality photos

For clothing, if you can find a photo of the item on a model or post a photo of yourself wearing it, those items almost always sell faster. Posting a photo of that tag or box you received it in can help to confirm the item is new or designer, for example. For everything else, try capturing the item in natural light, from multiple angles, and include a close-up image. Be sure to photograph and point out any scratches or stains on items. Want more tips? Check out this helpful article on how using a bit more effort in photographing your items can make them stand out among others online.

Three: Craft an intriguing description

Think about how you would search for the item you’re selling. Most shoppers aren’t searching “jeans,” they’re searching for a specific size, wash, or brand. Although you include this information in the filters and description section, maximize your title heading by saying, “Like New, Levi 501 Light Wash Denim” rather than “Jeans.” Additionally, be sure to note anything wrong with the item, disclose whether they come from a smoke-free, pet-free home, or even what your reason for selling is. People like detail, and all of these factors affect your rating and determine if you’re a trustworthy seller.

Four: Pricing Tips!

Price the item to get it out of your house, not to make a fortune. Try searching online to see what your item is already selling for (Poshmark and Facebook are great at showing you what similar items are priced at). Consider what the item cost when you purchased it, how much you would like to get for it, and then come up with your price. Generally, clothes resell at about half the price of what you purchased them at. Always post it at your high end for the first week and expect buyers to want to negotiate. If you’re posting a good amount of clothes, remember how much they can all add up to! I’d much rather sell shirts for $10 each and get them out of my wardrobe sooner.

Five: Watch out for fraud.

Unfortunately, selling online can (sometimes) go wrong. With Facebook especially, be sure not to post your address or identifying information in the listing. Wait until you receive interest in the item, view the person’s profile, and do your best to determine if it’s a real person. If anyone asks for your cell phone number or email address, block them immediately. The Messenger app was made so none of that info needs to be shared. When you do schedule a pick-up, I find it comforting to say “corner of Stage Rd and Abbott St” or “the third blue house on Magnolia St” to be extra safe. With other apps such as Poshmark, I’ve never had issues other than a buyer being unhappy with the product. Apps and websites’ customer service teams are generally great about resolving these issues so both parties are happy.

Six: Bad luck? Buy Nothing.

When all else fails, there’s always the “Buy Nothing” groups on Facebook and other sites. Almost every town has one and you’d be surprised at how active they are. I see everything from furniture to leftover food from parties or dinner being posted. Clothes are easy to send on their way if you’re not having luck selling online. If you’ve tried everything to sell your unwanted items, there comes a time when getting them out of your home becomes the bigger priority. Less physical clutter always translates to less mental clutter.

I hope these tips help! One last tip I will share is to get your children involved. If your kid really wants new toys or clothes, give them the challenge of selling a few items with your help before purchasing something new and have fun with them in the process!