One of the most common problems a new eBay seller encounters when placing an item for sale on eBay for the first time is whether to list a typical eBay auction where prospective buyers will bid on the item or whether to use the Buy it Now option and have someone pay a set price.

Each listing style serves it's own purpose, and if the wrong style is use you may not maximize your potential profit.  Some items will see better results as a Buy it Now as opposed to an auction, and vice versa.  You need to know what types of items will do better with each style.  I have devised a quick list that will help you decide whether or not you should list your item as an auction or as a Buy it Now.

Auctions

The standard eBay auction format allows bidders to compete against each other to win your item.  The best time to list as an auction is when you have an item that is hard to find and is in very high demand.  These types of items always do well in an auction format.  Not only are people looking to purchase these in demand items, but they also enjoy the thrill of bidding and competing for your item.

Collectors items such as coins, art, vintage toys etc are great items to list in an auction format provided there is some demand for your item.  Some collectors items do well at auction, while others do not.  Do some research on eBay and see how much similar collectors items are going for before you send them to an auction.

If the item you are listing has no actual set value then listing as an auction is a fantastic idea.  For example if you are selling a lot of books that are sitting on the shelf, an old video game system, or just some "junk" from around the house.  One man's junk is another man's treasure, so you never know if your auction will get bid up beyond what you thought your item was worth.

Buy It Now 

I recommend using the Buy it Now option when you have a high priced item that is not in high demand.  While the item is worth a lot you will not see enough bidders to warrant using an auction style listing.  If you have multiples of the same item then the Buy it Now is the best option for you, as you are able to list all of your items in one auction and set a single price.

Most artists, or people that create their own items use the Buy it Now option as their items are quite unique and the general public has no real idea the value of the items.

If you are nervous about not getting full value for your item on eBay then you may want to stick to a Buy it Now auction so that you set the price of your item and not have to worry about any loss that you may incur.


In which ever auction style you choose it is recommended that you research your item, see who else is selling it on eBay and take notes.  See what techniques have been successful and what strategies fail.


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