Anyone Making A Living On eBay?

69 replies
Hi all,

Just wondering if there are people making a living on eBay here? I hope to be able to interact with like-minded sellers as well as share my tips and knowledge on eBay to interested people.
#ebay #living #making
  • Profile picture of the author Rickling
    I'm using ebay to sell and buy products but as for making a living is very hard as for fees etc!!! But depends what you are selling and how much you sell and cost etc!!
    Rick.
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  • Profile picture of the author connieong
    Hi Rick

    Thanks for responding to my post. Hee actually i understand that selling on eBay can be very easy but when you wanna make more money it becomes harder. I also experience the fees problem. I hope that there might be more people here sharing their experiences on eBay too.

    Any threads or post i can read up on eBay here?
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    • Profile picture of the author baggieboyblue
      Hi

      I try to make a living on e bay but it gets very difficult at times. Ebay Fees , paypal fees and postal costs certainly eat into your margin. I sell cds, personalised prints, printed bags, football memorabilia and foreign language courses. I am a powerseller and also have an e bay shop.

      If I sell a second hand CD for £5 , you will have e bay final fees of £0.50, paypal fees of £ 0.37 , postal and packing costs of £ 0.75. Thats a total of £1.62 , 32 % of your selling price. On top of this I have to buy the Cd, which i buy in bulk, list the auction for 5p and pay for my shop subscription of £ 50 per month.

      You also get e bay changing rules from time to time in a way that benefits them and doesn,t help the sellers.

      I am now looking to move my activities to my own websites.

      I think the best way to look at ebay is as a part time business.

      Any help you would like I will try to help you.
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      • Profile picture of the author Joe Benjamin
        Originally Posted by baggieboyblue View Post

        Hi

        I try to make a living on e bay but it gets very difficult at times. Ebay Fees , paypal fees and postal costs certainly eat into your margin. I sell cds, personalised prints, printed bags, football memorabilia and foreign language courses. I am a powerseller and also have an e bay shop.

        If I sell a second hand CD for £5 , you will have e bay final fees of £0.50, paypal fees of £ 0.37 , postal and packing costs of £ 0.75. Thats a total of £1.62 , 32 % of your selling price. On top of this I have to buy the Cd, which i buy in bulk, list the auction for 5p and pay for my shop subscription of £ 50 per month.

        You also get e bay changing rules from time to time in a way that benefits them and doesn,t help the sellers.

        I am now looking to move my activities to my own websites.

        I think the best way to look at ebay is as a part time business.

        Any help you would like I will try to help you.
        And this is precisely why I wised up and stopped doing ebay months
        ago to focus on my own websites and businesses. Best decision I
        ever made.

        Ebay made me money, but it was alot of work to keep up with the
        shipping, costs, fee's, ebay rules and policies, etc.

        I get angry just thinking about it. But, if you sell big ticket items or
        information products, it makes ebay worthwhile.
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      • Profile picture of the author connieong
        Originally Posted by baggieboyblue View Post

        Hi

        I try to make a living on e bay but it gets very difficult at times. Ebay Fees , paypal fees and postal costs certainly eat into your margin. I sell cds, personalised prints, printed bags, football memorabilia and foreign language courses. I am a powerseller and also have an e bay shop.

        If I sell a second hand CD for £5 , you will have e bay final fees of £0.50, paypal fees of £ 0.37 , postal and packing costs of £ 0.75. Thats a total of £1.62 , 32 % of your selling price. On top of this I have to buy the Cd, which i buy in bulk, list the auction for 5p and pay for my shop subscription of £ 50 per month.

        You also get e bay changing rules from time to time in a way that benefits them and doesn,t help the sellers.

        I am now looking to move my activities to my own websites.

        I think the best way to look at ebay is as a part time business.

        Any help you would like I will try to help you.
        Thanks for sharing with me your experiences. I also experience the same problems mentioned but as i have means of getting goods at low cost, my profit margin is still relatively high. Having a separate website is also a good way to increase your profits and lowering the eBay costs.
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  • Profile picture of the author timpears
    I have not sold on eBay in years. I found it was really cut throat when I first sold there. I was able to make a little money there in the beginning. I went back and tried a few times but never had much luck. Unless you really know what you are doing it is really hardd

    The only way to make money there is to study the markets and pick your product well. And even then I think you need a bit of luck too. It can be done successful by some though.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by timpears View Post

      I have not sold on eBay in years. I found it was really cut throat when I first sold there. I was able to make a little money there in the beginning. I went back and tried a few times but never had much luck. Unless you really know what you are doing it is really hardd

      The only way to make money there is to study the markets and pick your product well. And even then I think you need a bit of luck too. It can be done successful by some though.
      Yes the products you sell really plays a part. As for luck wise, i feel that it is not so much of luck but for efforts and research.
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  • Profile picture of the author Lisa Gergets
    Putting all your eggs in one basket is never a good idea. Say you were actually making a good living on Ebay and something happens and they become obsolete? Your entire income stream has then disappeared.

    You can definitely add Ebay into the mix, but always have multiple streams of income to keep yourself financially healthy.
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    • Profile picture of the author bullseyemarketing
      I have been full time on eBay since about 2000. The best tip I can give you is find a niche. Something that you know about or have experience with. If you follow some of the guru's of eBay out there they will tell you to dropship. But I can tell you from experience the fees will eat you alive. The mark up on 99% of these products is way too small due to the fact that thousand's of other eBayers are selling the same thing. If you can really specialize in a niche and buy it in bulk surplus you will make good money. The military and government sells everything surplus you need to make a full time income. Sell quality and specialized items that cost a lot of money new. If you can find it surplus from Uncle Sam you'll make lot's of money. For example I bought brand new aviation kit from the military for under $1,000 and sold it on Ebay for $19,000 in a week. The military paid $63,000 for it so you can see that my buyer got a deal at $19,000. My best buy ever was literally a truck load of new equiptment from the GSA in 2001. The government paid almost $1,000,000. I paid a little under $13,000. I know these a rare examples but you can find these deals at any price point. Just specialize in what you know. Good luck!
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      • Profile picture of the author x3xsolxdierx3x
        Wise words, and insights, bullseyemarketing. Thank you!

        Originally Posted by bullseyemarketing View Post

        Hi Connieong, I have been full time on eBay since about 2000. The best tip I can give you is find a niche. Something that you know about or have experience with. If you follow some of the guru's of eBay out there they will tell you to dropship. But I can tell you from experience the fees will eat you alive. The mark up on 99% of these products is way too small due to the fact that thousand's of other eBayers are selling the same thing. If you can really specialize in a niche and buy it in bulk surplus you will make good money. The military and government sells everything surplus you need to make a full time income. Sell quality and specialized items that cost a lot of money new. If you can find it surplus from Uncle Sam you'll make lot's of money. For example I bought brand new aviation kit from the military for under $1,000 and sold it on Ebay for $19,000 in a week. The military paid $63,000 for it so you can see that my buyer got a deal at $19,000. My best buy ever was literally a truck load of new equiptment from the GSA in 2001. The government paid almost $1,000,000. I paid a little under $13,000. I know these a rare examples but you can find these deals at any price point. Just specialize in what you know. Good luck!
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      • Profile picture of the author connieong
        Originally Posted by bullseyemarketing View Post

        I have been full time on eBay since about 2000. The best tip I can give you is find a niche. Something that you know about or have experience with. If you follow some of the guru's of eBay out there they will tell you to dropship. But I can tell you from experience the fees will eat you alive. The mark up on 99% of these products is way too small due to the fact that thousand's of other eBayers are selling the same thing. If you can really specialize in a niche and buy it in bulk surplus you will make good money. The military and government sells everything surplus you need to make a full time income. Sell quality and specialized items that cost a lot of money new. If you can find it surplus from Uncle Sam you'll make lot's of money. For example I bought brand new aviation kit from the military for under $1,000 and sold it on Ebay for $19,000 in a week. The military paid $63,000 for it so you can see that my buyer got a deal at $19,000. My best buy ever was literally a truck load of new equiptment from the GSA in 2001. The government paid almost $1,000,000. I paid a little under $13,000. I know these a rare examples but you can find these deals at any price point. Just specialize in what you know. Good luck!
        Thank you. That's good advice and nice sharing.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by Lisa Gergets View Post

      Putting all your eggs in one basket is never a good idea. Say you were actually making a good living on Ebay and something happens and they become obsolete? Your entire income stream has then disappeared.

      You can definitely add Ebay into the mix, but always have multiple streams of income to keep yourself financially healthy.
      Thanks Lisa! eBay is my main business but i also do some affiliate marketing and blogging. I guess every marketer like to dip their fingers in areas that enables them to make money all the time. There are surely an area which you are more well-versed in.
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    • Profile picture of the author Silas Hart
      Originally Posted by Lisa Gergets View Post

      Putting all your eggs in one basket is never a good idea. Say you were actually making a good living on Ebay and something happens and they become obsolete? Your entire income stream has then disappeared.

      You can definitely add Ebay into the mix, but always have multiple streams of income to keep yourself financially healthy.
      Exactly. Someone should NEVER sell on "Just" eBay.

      Also, if you talk to a lot of people who were massive powersellers back in 05-07 that are gone, they will undoubtedly tell you that PayPal killed their business. Now it's just a cycle. People get to the top 100 sellers... and then just kind of disappear... and another person fills their spot.

      My eBay sales are no longer a large percentage of my overall sales.
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  • Profile picture of the author susinggih
    Nice thread you have here Connie. I'm also thinking about becoming ebay seller.
    But how about ebay affiliates? How is their affiliates fee compare to let's say amazon?
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by susinggih View Post

      Nice thread you have here Connie. I'm also thinking about becoming ebay seller.
      But how about ebay affiliates? How is their affiliates fee compare to let's say amazon?
      I would think eBay is an easy way to get started most of the time to make some money and it is a no brainer.

      You can also make money from their affiliate program and now it's call the eBay Partner Network. You can read about it here https://publisher.ebaypartnernetwork...-US/index.html

      Amazon fees are different as they calculate on a sales percentage. eBay program basically pays on clicks by the Amazon fees are different as they calculate on a sales percentage. eBay program basically pays on clicks by the traffic you generate.
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  • Profile picture of the author warriorjackie
    yes there are plenty
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  • Profile picture of the author JustKid
    I just found myself being frustrated that ebay takes a cut, and then paypal does.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kezz
    I don't make a living on ebay myself but my parents do, so I can tell you a little about how.

    They import rare collectible items from the U.S. and sell them here in Australia.

    Because it takes some learning to understand how to make good purchasing decisions for import, there is very little competition.

    There is a substantial difference between what they have to pay to import and what they can get selling locally, even despite the Aussie dollar being weak and the fact most are resold through ebay.com.au.

    So, they end up making a tidy profit.

    Perhaps something similar can work for you as well.
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    • Profile picture of the author Aussie_Al
      Originally Posted by Kezz View Post

      I don't make a living on ebay myself but my parents do, so I can tell you a little about how.

      They import rare collectible items from the U.S. and sell them here in Australia.

      Because it takes some learning to understand how to make good purchasing decisions for import, there is very little competition.

      There is a substantial difference between what they have to pay to import and what they can get selling locally, even despite the Aussie dollar being weak and the fact most are resold through ebay.com.au.

      So, they end up making a tidy profit.

      Perhaps something similar can work for you as well.
      Thats great - they found a nice loophole

      Back when I lived in Australia - if you bought items in bulk and customs had a lil snoop they would charge you up to 200% import tax - which is why so many cool collectibles cost so much thru official shops in Aussie.

      Again , nice work on their behalf finding such a niche
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by Kezz View Post

      I don't make a living on ebay myself but my parents do, so I can tell you a little about how.

      They import rare collectible items from the U.S. and sell them here in Australia.

      Because it takes some learning to understand how to make good purchasing decisions for import, there is very little competition.

      There is a substantial difference between what they have to pay to import and what they can get selling locally, even despite the Aussie dollar being weak and the fact most are resold through ebay.com.au.

      So, they end up making a tidy profit.

      Perhaps something similar can work for you as well.
      Thanks Kezz for this tip. Same for me i source and research for products that are popular in USA and UK and sell them in eBay. Being in Asia i am lucky to have cheaper source of suppliers.
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  • Profile picture of the author entrepreneurjay
    Tons of people make a living on Ebay even in a down economy. I mess around with it through dropshipping. But my main source of income is affiliate marketing.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by entrepreneurjay View Post

      Tons of people make a living on Ebay even in a down economy. I mess around with it through dropshipping. But my main source of income is affiliate marketing.
      Dropshipping is a good way to sell if you have found a reliable source and suppliers
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  • Profile picture of the author PinkSassyRN
    Ebay sellers are one of the best way to earn money through Ebay. Make sure you sell what's hip and hot nowadays and you'll do good.
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  • Profile picture of the author Mohammad Afaq
    I tried dropshipping last year but it didn't work for me
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by Mohammad Afaq View Post

      I tried dropshipping last year but it didn't work for me
      So you have given up on eBay or not sure how to try again?
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  • Profile picture of the author blue_gurl
    Don't forget their new top seller status that's hard to maintain. they replaced the powerseller status.
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    • Profile picture of the author c.t.coburn
      I tried drop shipping but didn't find enough of a margin plus you are at the mercy of ebay, paypal AND a dropship company.

      I tried resale items but finding reliable stream of product is a challenge.

      What I found that works is creating my own product for pennies - in my case bookmarks and novelty money.

      Also I've added magazine clippings - FREE from friends and recycling bin.

      Not big volume here ( averages $20-30 day ) but almost all profit and no stress.
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      • Profile picture of the author connieong
        Originally Posted by c.t.coburn View Post

        I tried drop shipping but didn't find enough of a margin plus you are at the mercy of ebay, paypal AND a dropship company.

        I tried resale items but finding reliable stream of product is a challenge.

        What I found that works is creating my own product for pennies - in my case bookmarks and novelty money.

        Also I've added magazine clippings - FREE from friends and recycling bin.

        Not big volume here ( averages $20-30 day ) but almost all profit and no stress.
        Yes that is originality and you have your own products to sell. Good work!
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  • Profile picture of the author harro1
    Many of my friends are making good money from ebay, so yes it is very much possible!
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  • Profile picture of the author Underground SEO
    I was trying to make money through ebay a while back, it fell through though due to too many competitors and no real profit margin.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by fryerben View Post

      I was trying to make money through ebay a while back, it fell through though due to too many competitors and no real profit margin.
      Perhaps that happened with the kind of products you sell? I'm not sure but many of whom i share my tips with mostly found success in eBay.
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  • Profile picture of the author nyrsimon
    So there are lots of people making great money on ebay. The secret is to look at the most successful sellers and improve on it.

    It is difficult (but not impossible) to make money with lower priced items. It's a simple equation of margin and sellthru

    Also people really forget the lifetime value of a customer - if you view an ebay sale as a once and done then you are leaving money on the table......

    Simon
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    • Profile picture of the author Pradeep Bhagwat
      I am using E-bay to make money since few years and have good experience with it. But more hard work still remains ahead as situation is changing daily. I totally agree with fellow warriours in this field.

      - Pradeep
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by nyrsimon View Post

      So there are lots of people making great money on ebay. The secret is to look at the most successful sellers and improve on it.

      It is difficult (but not impossible) to make money with lower priced items. It's a simple equation of margin and sellthru

      Also people really forget the lifetime value of a customer - if you view an ebay sale as a once and done then you are leaving money on the table......

      Simon
      Good say Simon! I feel that selling on eBay is similar to having a real retail store. Whether your walk in customers will return in the future depends on your relationship with them. I include a thank you card with my eBay store id in the delivery to "remind" them to come back again. And i really have a good number of return customers who tell their friends too and buy again and again.
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  • Profile picture of the author garyv
    I sell my stuff on ebay on the side. But more than anything it's a good place to pick up permanent buyers and pick up leads for your lists. The reason it makes such excellent lists, is because ebay is always crawling w/ people already in a buying mood, and these people have usually bought online before. If you can build a list of ebay buyers, then you'll have one very responsive list.

    I also use ebay for niche research. Often times you can go into a sellers feedback page and see if the product they are promoting is actually selling. Something you can't do w/ most other online websites.
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    • Profile picture of the author phoenixx9000
      Not making a living (yet) but I'm making $50 - $75 profit most days.
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      • Profile picture of the author connieong
        Originally Posted by phoenixx9000 View Post

        Not making a living (yet) but I'm making $50 - $75 profit most days.
        That's very good! So leverage on it and make it grow!
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    • Profile picture of the author phoenixx9000
      Originally Posted by article_ghostwriter View Post

      My top seller tip: I rarely sell with Buy It Now. Auctions have consistently brought in much higher prices for me. My theory is that eBay buyers like to engage in the auction process, and once they have 'invested' in the auction by bidding, they become attached to it and determined to win it. They will often go above their budget because of a kind of 'auction fever'
      I think it depends what you are selling - I find it works the opposite way. If you consistently resell the same items, buyers are quite savvy and will notice this and therefore hold off bidding on an auction because they know that you will have another one of whatever it is for sale soon and think they might be able to try and win next time for a low bid. If its a buy it now and they want it, theres no reason not to (apart from price). I get much better prices with buy it now.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by garyv View Post

      I sell my stuff on ebay on the side. But more than anything it's a good place to pick up permanent buyers and pick up leads for your lists. The reason it makes such excellent lists, is because ebay is always crawling w/ people already in a buying mood, and these people have usually bought online before. If you can build a list of ebay buyers, then you'll have one very responsive list.

      I also use ebay for niche research. Often times you can go into a sellers feedback page and see if the product they are promoting is actually selling. Something you can't do w/ most other online websites.
      Yes Gary i totally agree! If you think out of the box, ebay can be another research panel for other online businesses.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by article_ghostwriter View Post

      I'm a 'top seller' (previously a 'power seller'), and have been for years. My profits would be what many would consider to be a decent annual salary. As everyone else here has said, eBay ain't what it used to be.

      I have never dropshipped but I sell an extremely desirable niche item. A lot of work goes into it as I have to personally source each item, but I know what I'm looking for and I know how to photograph and 'market' auctions. I have considered having my own website but I've checked the competition and, even with the fees, the market I reach through eBay still makes it worth my while. I see similar items on websites that never seem to sell, at prices for less than what I make on auctions.

      My top seller tip: I rarely sell with Buy It Now. Auctions have consistently brought in much higher prices for me. My theory is that eBay buyers like to engage in the auction process, and once they have 'invested' in the auction by bidding, they become attached to it and determined to win it. They will often go above their budget because of a kind of 'auction fever'

      I agree that it's a good "one-of-many" tricks to have up your sleeve. I have another 'bricks and mortar' business, and I am currently developing two IM-related ventures - and will probably invest less time and effort in eBay because of their ever-increasing fees.
      That is awesome! Glad to know that there are more experience eBay sellers than me. I also sell more thru auctions like what you have mentioned. I guess the "auction fever" on eBay creates the excitement for the buyers to be "snatching" for certain items they have their eyes on. Hahah
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  • Profile picture of the author meganswolf
    Hello,

    Being the young person that I am, I tried to sell different video games. Unfortunately it cost more to purchase them than they are worth. I mean I sold all of my old games quite fast. But when I looked around for some whole sale products it always came down to you need a sellers license or you need to pay a one time fee.

    I even went to one whole sale site and it was selling products a few dollars lower than the actual retail price. So I quit trying to sell stuff online.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by meganswolf View Post

      Hello,

      Being the young person that I am, I tried to sell different video games. Unfortunately it cost more to purchase them than they are worth. I mean I sold all of my old games quite fast. But when I looked around for some whole sale products it always came down to you need a sellers license or you need to pay a one time fee.

      I even went to one whole sale site and it was selling products a few dollars lower than the actual retail price. So I quit trying to sell stuff online.
      Well that is a good niche on eBay. If you can get old games from around the block (garage sales) or buy them cheaply from friends, you can still make a good profit from selling them. With regards to buying from wholesale, you will need more capital and raise the price since all games are brand new.
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  • Profile picture of the author Richnana
    Funny, you should ask that question. May 29th my grandson competed in a skateboarding tournament at the EPIC indoor skate park in Roseville. The tournament was co-sponsored by a company called IKON. The guy is a home grown success. He sells 1 million dollars worth of product on ebay/year

    He sells Tshirts, skateboards, helmets, etc. If you find a product that people want, yeah, you can make a living on ebay. The shop is in a god forsaken city calle Neuman but this guy does charity benefits, skateboard competitions and more. He found a niche that is growing by leaps and bounds every day and he has tapped into it and he is literally making a fortune.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by Richnana View Post

      Funny, you should ask that question. May 29th my grandson competed in a skateboarding tournament at the EPIC indoor skate park in Roseville. The tournament was co-sponsored by a company called IKON. The guy is a home grown success. He sells 1 million dollars worth of product on ebay/year

      He sells Tshirts, skateboards, helmets, etc. If you find a product that people want, yeah, you can make a living on ebay. The shop is in a god forsaken city calle Neuman but this guy does charity benefits, skateboard competitions and more. He found a niche that is growing by leaps and bounds every day and he has tapped into it and he is literally making a fortune.
      Yes that's totally right! I guess eBay is also about real people and real living. So the items you sell will reflect on the niche demand too. I guess he has turned his hobby into a successful business! Thanks for sharing this Richnana!
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  • Profile picture of the author JonMills
    Originally Posted by connieong View Post

    Hi all,

    Just wondering if there are people making a living on eBay here? I hope to be able to interact with like-minded sellers as well as share my tips and knowledge on eBay to interested people.
    You will find those who are successful are either wholesalers dealing with reputable companies or are dropshippers but arent using the total crap dropshipping sites out there but they have established agreements with brand name companies
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by JonMills View Post

      You will find those who are successful are either wholesalers dealing with reputable companies or are dropshippers but arent using the total crap dropshipping sites out there but they have established agreements with brand name companies
      Hmm....i dun think that is necessary the case? I wanna interact with successful eBayers who are normal people like me. I sell quite alot and i dun deal with wholesalers and i dun do dropship. There are other ways to be successful on eBay too.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kezz
    You know for that matter it's a pretty good strategy to employ for anyone, anywhere.

    Look for a product type that sells at a higher rate in your own country's ebay listings than it does overseas.

    Ensure that the margin is big enough after you import, and get the ball rolling - become an expert on that type of product.

    As for how to actually find said products? As yet I'm not sure.

    But if I figure it out I'll be sure to let you all know.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by Kezz View Post

      You know for that matter it's a pretty good strategy to employ for anyone, anywhere.

      Look for a product type that sells at a higher rate in your own country's ebay listings than it does overseas.

      Ensure that the margin is big enough after you import, and get the ball rolling - become an expert on that type of product.

      As for how to actually find said products? As yet I'm not sure.

      But if I figure it out I'll be sure to let you all know.
      Sure Kezz let us know!
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  • Profile picture of the author niffybranco
    I use ebay quite effectively and i make quite a bit of money the best part is its on semi autopilot. If you find little niches and you find the right product to sell you will definately make profit.
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by niffybranco View Post

      I use ebay quite effectively and i make quite a bit of money the best part is its on semi autopilot. If you find little niches and you find the right product to sell you will definately make profit.
      That is great! I'm so happy to know that there are people like me making good money on eBay. Keep up the good work!
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  • Profile picture of the author blue_gurl
    I am active on eBay but I am not making enough to call it a 'living'. One thing I noticed in top sellers are the number of items they have listed. I only have a little more than a hundred..
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by blue_gurl View Post

      I am active on eBay but I am not making enough to call it a 'living'. One thing I noticed in top sellers are the number of items they have listed. I only have a little more than a hundred..
      I dun sell alot of items too but i tend to hit on the quantity of each item i have. Once this batch finished, i'll get new but different batches. This way you keep your store fresh and the quantity goes out fast.
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      • Profile picture of the author blue_gurl
        Originally Posted by connieong View Post

        I dun sell alot of items too but i tend to hit on the quantity of each item i have. Once this batch finished, i'll get new but different batches. This way you keep your store fresh and the quantity goes out fast.
        That seems like a good system you have going on.. I guess I'm not putting enough effort on selling.
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        • Profile picture of the author connieong
          Originally Posted by blue_gurl View Post

          That seems like a good system you have going on.. I guess I'm not putting enough effort on selling.
          Well i guess that's my way of ramping up my sales and get the money rolling in.
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    • Profile picture of the author 96Darkhorse
      Hi,
      I have awared that big item is easy to sell. Like Guzheng, piano, funiture. But buyer is not very willing to pay extra money for addition transport fee. To make a living through ebay, it need to consistence have more items in the listing and also have to put in lots of hard work.
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      • Profile picture of the author jhongren
        Originally Posted by 96Darkhorse View Post

        Hi,
        I have awared that big item is easy to sell. Like Guzheng, piano, funiture. But buyer is not very willing to pay extra money for addition transport fee. To make a living through ebay, it need to consistence have more items in the listing and also have to put in lots of hard work.
        Hi Darkhorse,

        what about limiting to local delivery so it can be self collected?
        it saves you the effort of arranging delivery of big items and the expenses goes to the buyer.

        John
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  • Profile picture of the author Flipfilter
    Apparently, six years ago Ebay held a pretty strong share of the market for people buying and selling established websites and then the quality began to decrease.

    Maybe Flippa is heading down the same path
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  • Profile picture of the author 96Darkhorse
    Hi,
    I sold most of my items locally which i do not need to pay ebay fee. I am trying to get a niche product which i am still doing the research and sourcing also hoping to sell globally. Any idea regarding dropship and reliable wholesale company that is worthwhile consider? Knowing that dropship does not has to come up with "BIG" capital. Thank you.....
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    • Profile picture of the author connieong
      Originally Posted by 96Darkhorse View Post

      Hi,
      I sold most of my items locally which i do not need to pay ebay fee. I am trying to get a niche product which i am still doing the research and sourcing also hoping to sell globally. Any idea regarding dropship and reliable wholesale company that is worthwhile consider? Knowing that dropship does not has to come up with "BIG" capital. Thank you.....
      Yes i do sell in Singapore as well and even meet up with buyers for cash on delivery. For selling on eBay in your country you safe on eBay fees and cut down the cost for delivery as well.

      I do not have experience in dropshipping as i source my products direct from suppliers. Perhaps someone can share their experience here?
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  • Profile picture of the author DrGUID
    My friend made his fortune from eBay. My tip - use your BRAIN.

    My other tip - sell stuff on Amazon, eBay's rubbish these days.
    Signature

    Love passive income? Make money on hubpages. Make money from ClickBank. Preserve your new wealth by investing in gold.

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  • Profile picture of the author Steve Brown
    Selling on Ebay is fun and challenging. Few are truly super successful, those who find the niche and fill it will aways come out on tip. Being aware of the fees and shipping costs, beofre you sell, is the only way to know if you can make a profit. Usually you don't get a 100% sell thru rate.
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    • Profile picture of the author Rockmanfl
      i've sold on ebay before, mostly for just part times income - the fees can really add up, if you haven't sold much on ebay yet, I would try selling what you have around the house that you may want to get rid of and see how you like it. To be truly successful at ebay, you would need to find a good supplier so you can make a decent profit - and make sure you do plenty of research since there's a lot of competition out there.
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  • Profile picture of the author Thomas Michal
    I make more money selling on Craigslist
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  • Profile picture of the author cvaughn
    I have a buddy who sells plenty on Ebay (top seller / power seller) but his design is to get the prospect to contact him either phone or email (custom orders upsells). He is making bank with his own product and a contract he has with a sporting goods outfit.
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  • Profile picture of the author Robert Domino
    I tried to sell on Ebay for years. I've made some money, but nothing noteworthy. Never found the "magic formula".

    In the end, the 15% in fees (Ebay + Paypal) totally turned me off. Unless you have a HUGE margin, on bigger priced items, Ebay seems like a total waste of time. I found items with ~40% margin and after all the fees, it feels like a lot of work for little benefit. Obviously if you can push 1,000$+ items, that's different.

    It feels like almost everyone making big money is selling refurbished/overstock etc, since that's the only way to get that kind of margin.

    I actually plan on buying a pallet or two of shelf pulls this fall and giving it another try. I'll sell them and have my girlfriend do the dirty work (packing and shipping
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