In the age of the Internet, selling items online has never been easier. From the comfort of your own home, you can turn your attic treasures or crafty passions into a lucrative side hustle. But how do you know what items will bring in the best profit? Over my years of online selling, I’ve found that the most surprising items often yield the highest returns. In this blog post, I’ll share 13 items that I sold online for surprising profits.
1. Vintage Electronics
You might think that old electronics are just junk, but for the right buyer, they are precious antiques. Recently, I sold an old Atari gaming console that had been gathering dust in my attic for over $200. Collectors and enthusiasts value these vintage items for their nostalgic worth and rarity, and are willing to pay high prices for them. Before throwing away old electronics, do a quick online search to see if they might be valuable.
2. Board Games
Believe it or not, board games can fetch a pretty penny online. Especially if they’re rare or vintage editions. Just a few months ago, I sold a 1970s edition of Monopoly for almost $100. Even common board games can bring in decent profits if they are in good condition and have all their pieces. So, before you toss out that old Scrabble set, consider listing it online.
3. Brand Name Clothing
If you have some brand name clothing gathering dust in your closet, you might want to consider selling it online. Recently, I sold a used Kate Spade purse for $150. It’s important to note that brand name items sell best when they’re in good condition and are a current style. Be sure to take clear photos and provide accurate descriptions to attract potential buyers.
4. Vintage Pyrex
Vintage Pyrex is highly sought after by collectors. I recently sold a set of Pyrex mixing bowls from the 1960s for $125. The key to selling vintage Pyrex is to make sure it’s in good condition and has a desirable pattern. Before selling, do some research to find out what patterns are most valuable.
5. Vinyl Records
Vinyl records have made a comeback in recent years, and collectors are willing to pay top dollar for certain albums. I once sold a Beatles album for $300. Before selling, make sure to check the condition of the record and its sleeve, as these factors significantly affect the value.
6. Vintage Toys
From old Barbie dolls to vintage Hot Wheels cars, old toys can bring in significant profits online. I once sold an original 1980s Transformers action figure for $200. Just make sure the toys are in decent condition and try to find their original packaging if possible.
7. First Edition Books
First edition books, especially from popular authors or series, can be very valuable. I once sold a first edition Harry Potter book for $500. Make sure to check the publisher’s page to confirm it’s a first edition before listing.
8. Antique Furniture
Antique furniture can be a bit more challenging to sell due to shipping logistics, but the profits can be worth the effort. I once sold an antique oak dresser for $800. Be sure to accurately describe the condition and take high-quality photos to attract buyers.
9. Concert Posters
Concert posters, especially vintage or limited edition ones, can fetch a good price. I once sold a Grateful Dead poster from the ’70s for $250. Be sure to store posters flat and in a safe place to prevent damage.
10. Sports Memorabilia
Sports memorabilia, like signed baseballs or vintage team jerseys, can be very valuable. I once sold a signed baseball for $400. Always keep certificates of authenticity if you have them, as they can greatly increase the value.
11. Comic Books
Comic books, especially rare issues or first appearances of popular characters, can bring in substantial profits. I once sold a vintage Spiderman comic for $700. Make sure to store comic books properly to prevent damage and preserve their value.
12. Vintage Christmas Ornaments
Believe it or not, vintage Christmas ornaments can be quite valuable. I once sold a box of vintage glass ornaments from the 1950s for $150. Be sure to pack them carefully to prevent damage during shipping.
13. Autographs
Autographs from famous individuals, especially if they are deceased or rarely sign autographs, can be extremely valuable. I once sold a signed photo of Marilyn Monroe for $1,000. Always keep any provenance or certificates of authenticity to prove the autograph’s authenticity.
Selling items online can be a fun and profitable endeavor. So, before you throw something away or donate it, take a moment to see if it might be worth something. You never know what treasures you might find!