How to Make Money Shopping at Thrift Stores

Note on ethics: The common question I get is, "Isn't that taking advantage of the purpose of thrift stores - to help the poor?" In short, no. Thrift stores make money and help people in many ways, one of those is by selling donated goods. Plus, savvy thrift stores like my local Goodwill stores are marking the prices up for higher end, name brand goods. They know an opportunity when they see it, and so should you.

Note on Money: Don't buy merchandise with the household money if you can avoid it. The best way to get started is to actually sell off a few things of your own first to build up some capital. If you have no experience on eBay, you may want to buy a few (very inexpensive) things to build some positive feedback. Start small and build a good reputation.

Now let's start making money . . .

This sounds deceptively simple - buy "diamonds in the rough" at your local Salvation Army or Goodwill, then sell it on eBay. How much easier could it be, right?
Wrong... Goodwill, Salvation Army, and other thrift shops have raised their prices in recent years, so your margin may be very skimpy. Resale shop owners have always used this avenue to obtain quality goods at a good price and here's how they do it. Here's how to get the most out of thrift store shopping and reselling.

First, Know Your Market.

Go to eBay Pop (http://www.mpire.com/research/ebayPop.ivk) and research what's really selling. What's hot right now? What brands are really popular - remember, this isn't about what you like. It's about what eBay shoppers like.

While you're there, check out eBay's "Want it Now" section and look at the items people are actively wanting to purchase. Make a list of things you think you might be able to find at your local thrift stores and take the list with you when you go shopping.

Don't forget to cruise Overstock.com, Bluefly.com and other sites to see what the hot sellers are for them too.

Next, Know Your Merchandise

Salvation Army

Credit: Salvation Army

Copyright: Salvation Army