How to Make the Most from E-Bay Auctions - By David S. Baker

Whatever your merchandise, selling by using an eBay auction is profitable, simple and fun. Selling through eBay can be a one-time sale or a second income. People enjoy searching through online auctions to find rare collector’s items or unusual furniture and clothing. The selection at an eBay auction is limitless. Try eBay to sell your unneeded items instead of holding a yard sale. You may discover that the income opportunities are top-notch.

Even if you just want to unload a few dust-collecting items from your garage or attic, there are some tips which will help you have an eBay auction that’s profitable. You must do more than post a price and a picture of your item in order to bring bidders to your auction item.

Describe your merchandise accurately. It’s better to sell items, which are in excellent condition, but otherwise, be honest about what you have to sell. Deceit will always show up in the negative ratings and spoil your chances of future sales. You also should know as much as possible about what you are selling so you can give a complete and detailed description and promptly answer any questions which a bidder may ask.

Your sales and shipping and refund policies should be completely and accurately stated up front. Sales will go smoothly and give you repeat customers. Attracting repeat customers is vital if you want to maintain a good eBay auction success rate. Good customer service helps customers feel good about doing business with you.

Once your eBay auction merchandise has sold, you must do even more to keep the level of professional and courteous rapport with your customers. Good reviews and repeat customers mean a successful eBay career. Inform your customers of each step in the successful completion of the sale. First, thank them for the purchase and include any payment information. Next, tell them when you’ve shipped their purchase, the shipping carrier and any tracking information, which is available. It may be prudent to use delivery confirmation or package tracking when you ship the purchase to the customer. An expected receipt date helps your customers to know when they may expect their purchase to arrive.

Always conduct your e-Bay auctions and business transactions as a true professional. When you wrap and ship merchandise, you will want to prepare the package carefully to avoid shipping damage. This lets the buyer know that you recognize the importance of a safe and prompt arrival to them. Include a receipt so the customer will be able to keep vital information for his tax records. You can even include a sincere thank-you note.

Your reputation as a seller on an eBay auction is built by customer feedback and ratings. Take your ratings seriously, buyers do. If you remember to do something a little extra for your customer, they will appreciate it and tell others of their successful experience with you. Even difficult customers deserve courtesy and a friendly yet professional attitude.

David Baker is the owner and creator of http://www.auctions-here.com where auction sellers and buyers meet.