Are you looking to earn extra income via a part-time business, but you simply don’t have the time to take on a job outside of the home? If so, then you may become one of the countless Americans to use eBay to produce extra income. Best of all, your eBay business can be done from the comfort of your home, any time of the day or night, and at your convenience!
An eBay business is a great part-time business for students, stay-at-home moms, retirees or simply anyone that has a desire to earn extra income.
Skills Required: Basic knowledge of computer and the Internet
A good working knowledge of a computer and the Internet are great skills to bring to the table when selling on eBay. However, there are a great number of books and classes that can walk you through the process of selling on eBay. If you have the patience, you can learn how to sell on eBay easily over the course of weekend. eBay’s website is also full of free tutorials and guides, ranging from what products are the most popular to how to create eye-catching auction listings.
Startup Expenses: $0, if you already have a computer with Internet access
If you already have a computer with Internet access, then you are on your way to selling on eBay. The best way to break into the business of selling on eBay is to begin by selling items around your home that you no longer want or need. This can accomplish a few things: it can (a) provide you with the money to start your part-time business; (b) allow you to familiarize yourself with the eBay selling process; and (c) give you a good idea of what you might want to sell for your part-time business.
Monthly Revenue: Unlimited
The best part of selling on eBay is that the amount of money you make is completely up to you. It is not uncommon for part-time eBay sellers to make a few hundred dollars to thousands each month, but again, this is up to you and how many items you list.
Monthly Expenses: Less than $20
As a seller on eBay, you will be charged selling and listing fees, although eBay will send you an invoice on a monthly basis so you won’t need to pay fees every time you sell. Although the amount of monthly expenses will certainly depend on how much money you make and how many items you sell, the total monthly amount for a part-time eBay business will likely not exceed $20.
Time to Break Even: Right away!
Because eBay requires very little start-up costs – if any – as soon as you begin selling on eBay, you can begin earning money. The only exception is if you plan on purchasing items and then reselling them; in that case, it may take you a month or two to see returns on those purchases.
Possible Bumps in the Road
eBay connects buyers and sellers together over the widest range of products. You may have success in certain areas and none in others. A good way to avoid selling things that buyers don’t need or want is to simply research eBay and pay attention to auctions. You can easily see trends regarding which items sells and which items don’t, thereby eliminating the hassle of trying to sell unpopular items.
