You have decided that you want to make some extra money and become a seller on Ebay. Congratulations! This is the first step towards a lot of hard work, learning and late nights (until you can finally quit your day job - like me!).

****Updated - 8-27-07****10-02-07****

1. What do I sell? - Good question and the best answer is start learning how the whole process works, by selling things around your house that you no longer use. Most often this will result in more money than a garage sale, while keeping your Saturday free. After you get the hang of it, remember to sell something that you are interested in and that there is a demand for. What is the point of selling if you don't enjoy it?

2. So you decided to sell widgets. You are going to want to invest in a good digital camera. It does not have to be top of the line, but your pictures should be crisp and clear. Remember you are selling online and the picture is what will sell your item. ***In addition to this I always list with gallery photos. They peak the customers interest and it is hard to compete without them***

3. Write detailed descriptions and titles. This is how people are looking to buy your widget will find you. An example of a poor title is "Widget for sale" depending on the product titles should encompass all aspects of what a buyer is looking for. Like for a clothing widget - "New blue short sleeve shirt size Medium" is much better than "Shirt for sale". You can focus even more by adding brand names, adding M for medium rather than just the spelled out version, womens or mens, and the list goes on until you reach the character limit in the title. ***some items have a model number - but sure to include it this helps buyers compare them with similar items of the same nature.***

4. Learn the abbreviations - some common ones include NWT - New with Tags, NWOT - New without tags, BN - Brand New, S, M, L XL - Sizes, BNWOB - Brand New without Box, NIP - New in Plastic, and there are many other abbreviations buyers and sellers use to enhance their titles and chances of finding the items they are looking for.

5. Since you practiced with your rummage sale items - go buy a widget you are thinking of selling and try listing it with a detailed titile and abbreviations and compare your results - did you get more bids or watchers or lookers? ***Remember the best things to sell are those you are knowledgeable about or have an interest in. You can't make a career selling something that easily bores you****

6. Sign up for Ebay Selling Manger - this is the best $5 I spend per month - it includes accounting assistant for tax time and allows you to better track your ebay selling activity.

7. Research wholealsalers of your widget on the internet or on Ebay to purchase wholesale lots. Remember to research the going rate of your widget so you know the price you can pay and still make money selling your item. Many people make the mistake of thinking they are getting a good deal based on what the pay at the department store.

8. List your item - use the tips you have learned.

9. Accept paypal or use a merchant account. People like to know that they can charge their items and get them sent quickly. If you want to accept Money orders - I would US Postal Money orders only as you can cash them at the Post office and still get items out quickly.

10. Ship quickly. Paypal offers shipping through them which allows you to keep track of all the items you have shipped in one place. I also use the US Post Office website to ship since they also do not charge a surcharge. Some people will differ with me and say use UPS. The items I sell are small and so the USPO is cheaper for me and priority mail is very efficient - but you can use your discretions as to the best shipper for your items. ***Remember to get Signature Confirmation on items over $250 - Paypal seller protection will not cover you without it.*****

11. Leave feedback. This is the quickest way to grow your Ebay business.

12. General notes - Report your income - why get penalized later.

13. General notes - Wholesale lists - I have never purchased one of these, so I won't bash them, but the best idea is to do your own research, attend trade shows, etc.

14. Questions - visit the Ebay discussion boards or ask sellers directly. Most of the Ebay community is very helpful in assisting people when they need it.

Thanks to all who read my guide. Please let me know if you think it is helpful by rating it and Good Luck in your new Ebay adventures.