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	Selling Discards Through An Online Auction
	By Ramona Creel

Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.

• start with an attention-grabbing title for your product
• include any brand names
• describe the condition -- emphasize "new" items
• be honest about any flaws, damage, or wear
• provide as much description as necessary
• usually no space limit -- the more information the better
• size, color, and any special features
• indicate gender (men's, women's, kid's) when appropriate
• include photos and close-up's of features and "minor damage"
• place your item in a category with other similar items

• can participate in a traditional "auction" setting
• decide on a starting price
• set the bidding increments (i.e. minimum of $1)
• determine if you want item not to sell below a "reserve" price
• set a time limit for how long you want bid to be open
• item goes to highest bidder at end of auction
• if no one meets reserve price, item does not sell
• can also set "buy now" option that skips auction process
• purchaser can buy immediately for a pre-determined price

• let bidders know shipping method up front
• best to choose a flat rate shipping method
• or find shipping cost to farthest point from you in the country
• indicate that shipping may be higher for overseas bidders
• let bidders know if insurance on package costs more
• choose an escrow service to handle payments
• they receive cash payment from buyer and hold until delivery
• avoid problems with bounced checks and bad credit cards
• choose an escrow recommended by your auction service

• ask up front what the auction service's fees are
• see if fees are flat or a percentage of your sale
• also find out what protections you have from the service
• see how you are covered in case of a dishonest buyer
• know your rights and responsibilities before signing on

 

Copyright Ramona Creel, all rights reserved-- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box.

Ramona Creel is a modern Renaissance woman and guru of simplicity -- traveling the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of radically downsizing, and inspiring others to regain control of their own lives. As a Professional Organizer and Accountability Coach, Ramona will help you create the time and space to focus on your true priorities -- clearing away the clutter other obstacles and standing in the way of that life you've always wanted to be living. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a travel writer, social commentator, and blogger, she shares her experiences and insights about the world as we know it. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. And be sure to follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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