Ever wonder where the sellers get their merchandise? Maybe you thought I would love to sell on eBay, but, I really do not have enough things to get rid of. Well here's a little secret...Thrift stores. Yes I am talking, Amvets, Goodwill and Salvation Army. As some may say one man's junk is another man's treasure. If you take the time and make the effort you can find many, many items to resell for a profit. I am talking Vintage Jessica McClintock Gunne Sax, Disney collectibles and more.

Tip #1 Many Goodwill stores have a 50% off day at least once a month. Find out when it is and go shopping. There are even new sweaters, pants and tops new with the tags still attached that you can pick up for $3 to $5 and then resell.

Tip#2 Check when the local Goodwill is going to have a bag sale. This is when you purchase your bag for a set price. Normally about $25 and then you can fill it with as many clothing items as you can. Baby clothes, adult, childrens it is all up to you. You can find Bonnie Jean dresses and Gymboree outfits. Roll the clothing, DO NOT FOLD and place in bag. Stay away from coats and big sweaters, they will fill your bag and you will get less of a deal. If you are good, you can generally place 25-35 items in a bag. That means your cost would be less then a dollar an item.

Tip #3 Some thrift stores reduce the price by 75% on clothing on certain days of the week. That means you can get a discount on certain color coded tags.

Tip #4 Do not be afraid to look through the bins. Often you will find some surprises like an American Girl pet Coconut!  Or even a Vintage Disney watch!

Tip #5 Look through the books. Betty Crocker cook books are always in demand. The older the better sometimes too. Just check to make sure the pages are not too tattered or missing pages. And always make sure the book has its cover. Children's book by famous authors are a good buy too as are the American Girl Books, Captain Underpants and Junie B Jones.

Tip #6 Do not be afraid to ask the store manager for a discount. Find an evening gown in perfect condition selling for $25? Ask the manager if he would be willing to sell it for $15. You would be surprised how often they say yes. Seriously what do you have to loose by asking?

Tip #7 Take your time. Notyhing is worse then buying something for resell and then finding out it really is trash. Did you notice the broken zipper? Missing buttons? Stain? Chip? Crack? Missing pieces? Always, and I mean always carefully look at the item from a buyers point of view.

Tip #8 Remember to hit the garage sales. Here again do not be afraid to offer a lower price. The seller has these things out and ready to go, they really do not want to repack and cart it back in. Make an offer and check out the condition.

Tip #9 Before posting any item for sale do your homework. Try to buy the same item on ebay and see how much the item is going for. What is the cheapest one listed? What is the condition of the most expensive item? What are other sellers charging for shipping.

Last but of course not least...

Tip #10 Find a small area in your home where you can store things. If you think you will donate the item to a non-profity put in this area. If you child has already outgrown a new coat, put it in this area. Thinking of having a yard sale? Stpre the items int he same area. Go through them take pictures and post them on ebay. If they sell GREAT, if not they can still go in the yard sale or when the truck comes around to pick up donation.

Have fun and good luck.

Just me 2-cents worth.