While speaking to the children of a recently deceased client, they explained that they were surprised to learn that their Dad had collected Matchbox cars for years and years, and had found them in a closet in the house. They all in their original packaging, in perfect condition. They had no idea that their Dad had any interest in cars, let alone toy ones. When asking their Mom about it, she commented that Dad just thought they were cool and had thought that someday he would resell them for fun and profit. While it was unfortunate that Dad did not have the lifespan to fulfill his dream of selling them for a profit, he did leave a legacy to his children that they may either sell for the revenues, or just pass the collection along to the next generation to play with them as we did as kids. Either way, yay Dad!
Most people are natural collectors. Matchbox cars, crystal, baseball cards, art, coins- the list can go on and on. The big question is…WHY are you collecting? Some collect for fun, some for profit- which do you do? If it’s for fun, the biggest return is the enjoyment of viewing and owning those special and precious things that just mean something to you. If you are collecting for profit however, be careful: many a hobby turned business has resulted in financial ruin and a huge pile of worthless something’s.
EBAY has turned millions of collectors into businessmen and women. What used to be garage sale fodder is now skillfully bartered and sold on EBay. If you choose to start this way, start small. Do your research. While the adage “one mans garbage is another mans treasure” do you see an actual market for your item? Be reasonable: is there someone out there who wants your doll with one eye missing and no hair? Perhaps, but it may not be worth your time to market, sell and ship it. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try- many a fortune has been made on EBay for persons previously unskilled in the art of selling. It can’t hurt until you try!
You can open and account on EBay and following the instruction on how to start an account. Additionally, you will need to open a PayPal account to receive your payments, also easily set up in the EBay site. Once you are registered as a member you can find detailed information on how to post your items or items for sale.
Be careful about receiving your payments, and always be honest in your descriptions and valuations. If all else fails, get out a picnic table and have a hell of a garage sale in the spring!
