GON Reader Question
I have items listed on eBay for sale. Some have been sitting one year. I feel this is contributing to my clutter.
I thought about donating these items but
most are brand new and with the economy being what it is, every bit of money helps. Yet, I feel if I donate them it would give me more closet space while helping someone.
So my question is, how long would you suggest you leave a item on eBay and how can I get over
this pull and tug game I am doing. I cannot seem to make a decision.
I enjoy your site. It's most helpful. Thank you!
-- Marianne Lifrieri
Response from Maria Gracia
Hi Marianne,
I'm so glad you're finding my site helpful. I appreciate you as a loyal reader!
Deciding what to do with items that have been sitting unsold on eBay can be tricky, especially when considering the balance between potential income and the desire for more space. Here are a few tips to help you make that decision:
1. Set a Time Limit
When trying to declutter, it's important to decide on a specific time frame for how long you're willing to keep items listed on eBay. My suggestion is six months. In your case, with items sitting on eBay for a year or more, it's time to consider other options.
2. Revise Your Listings
If you'd like to give it one more try before donating, refresh your eBay listings. Update the photos, rewrite the descriptions, and adjust the prices. Sometimes a little tweak can attract new buyers if there is a demand for your items. At this point, I recommend not letting these sit on
eBay for more than three additional months.
3. Use a Multi-Channel Approach
Instead of exclusively relying on eBay, list your items on other platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local buy/sell/trade groups. This can increase
your chances of selling them. Again, no more than three months.
If, after three months, you still haven't sold those items, consider donating them. You’ll be helping someone in need and creating more space in your home.
The only exception is if you have something potentially worth a significant amount of money. In that case, you might try using the services of a consignment shop.
4. Be Consistent with Future
Listings
a) List items on several platforms.
b) Give it a go for six months (at the 3-month mark, if it hasn't sold, update the listings).
c) At the 6-month point, donate whatever hasn't sold or use the services of a consignment shop.
I know it's not always emotionally easy to let go of our stuff, but if you've tried to sell and it's not
working, the next best thing is to give away to family or friends...or donate to a charity.
