Do you have clothes that no longer fit or dishes that you no longer use? Is your garage full of gently used items that would be better off in someone else’s home? If you do, you’re not alone. Many people have things in their closets, garages and attics that can sell for a profit.
People resell old clothes, gently used furniture, electronic devices and just about anything you can think of — but how? It’s becoming increasingly common for people to turn to social media and use different platforms to sell their items. Rather than let them sit by the wayside, it’s much wiser to sell these types of items to earn extra cash.
Below, we’ll discuss the rise of buy and sell apps and a list of some of the top apps you can use to buy or sell used or new items.
Buy and Sell Apps Gain Popularity
For people looking to snag a great deal or sell unwanted items, there are plenty of smartphone apps to help them do so. These apps have become popular in recent years and will continue to become more prevalent.
It usually takes a bit of time and effort to post photos, descriptions and product information on these reselling platforms, but it’s a fairly easy way to earn some cash on the side. People will sell anything — literally anything — that they have in their homes. For years, sellers and buyers would flock to Craigslist to trade items.
You’ve probably heard of the horror stories regarding Craiglist sales gone wrong. The site itself hasn’t kept up with the digital age, and it’s become a top place for scam artists to do their worst. It’s never suggested to give your personal information to a stranger online, especially on reselling websites.
Rather than rely on a buggy, unsafe website, it’s efficient, convenient, and safe to use one of the Google Play or iOS App Store. App developers found an opportunity to create e-commerce platforms where buyers and sellers can interact and trade their items safely.
Top 6 Buy and Sell Apps for Selling Your Items
Below, we’ll explore six of the top apps you can use to sell some unwanted items for cash.
1. Facebook Marketplace
It’s most convenient for you to use Facebook Marketplace through the Facebook app, available on the iOS App Store and the Google Play store. It’s a neighborhood-centric app, meaning that you’ll likely sell your items to people in or around your community.
Facebook Marketplace has little structure for posting the items you want to sell. After uploading photos and a description of the item, you’ll have to figure out how to deliver the item to the buyer.
You may choose to meet the buyer in person or ship for a 5% fee. Many people have the Facebook app already installed on their smartphone, so adding some items to sell through the app is super simple and convenient.
2. OfferUp
OfferUp is a free app and lets you sell just about anything. You can message others about making a potential purchase, so you don’t need to provide your phone number or email address — it’s completely safe.
OfferUp lets you sell nationwide, and you can ship your items, though it’s also a good app for selling in your local area. One of the best features of OfferUp is that if the items you sell aren’t gaining traction, you can pay a small fee to promote them for a duration of time. Promoted items show up higher on people’s search results and can help you sell your items faster.
3. DeCluttr
If you have a pile of old technology that you can’t seem to get rid of, then DeCluttr is the app for you. DeCluttr is unique because you don’t need to post photos or descriptions of your items.
You input the device’s information, such as the make and model, and then the site will determine a valuation for the item. You then pack it in a box for shipping and send it with a provided shipping label. Rather than wait for someone to buy your item, you can almost immediately offload it and get paid for it.
4. Mercari
Mercari allows you to sell anything without meeting anyone in person for an exchange. You can list as many items as you want without any fees — however, there is a flat 10% fee once the item you list sells and a payment processing fee (2.9% plus 30 cents). Additionally, buyers can pay for the price you list or offer an amount for the item.
One catch with the Mercari app is that you’ll only receive your money once the product is shipped, the buyer receives it, they leave feedback for you and you leave feedback for them. You can even earn a $5 promotional reward for your first listing.
5. 5miles
5miles is a peer-to-peer marketplace app that uses GPS on your smartphone to reach local buyers. The in-app chat feature allows you to converse with buyers and negotiate a price for products you’re selling. There’s also a safe exchange area tool that ensures you both can meet at a secure location to prevent dangerous situations.
Other safety features include user ratings and verification. The app also connects to a Facebook profile, so you know the buyer is a real person, not a bot or a scammer. There are online payment and shipping options on 5miles as well. Lastly, there’s a video-enabled listing feature so you can show off what you’re trying to sell in video format.
6. Poshmark
Poshmark is a great selling platform for clothes, accessories, beauty products and handbags. With more than 80 million users in the U.S., Canada and Australia, the app allows you to follow other people’s “closets,” where you can comment, like and share various types of products.
To list a product for sale, all you need to do is post a photo with the product’s brand and size, as well as your asking price. Additionally, either the seller or the buyer can offer a discounted price for the product, which can be accepted or denied. This helps sellers move inventory, and buyers take advantage of a good deal.
Next time you’re looking for a place to sell your stuff and make some cash, consider using one of the apps listed above. Each offers a unique selling model, but they all have similar features and ensure user safety and satisfaction.
Use Buy and Sell Apps to Earn Cash Fast
No matter what you’re trying to sell, one of these buy and sell apps will suit your needs, and you’ll be able to make some extra money easily. How you use that extra money is up to you! Rather than let items collect dust in your attic, basement or garage, consider selling them using one of the platforms above. Happy selling!
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