Even if your ultimate goal is to sell LEGO on eBay, my first recommendation for every new eBay user is to BUY a few items. You know that expression about “following before you lead”? Think of “buying before you sell” as the eBay version.
LEGO steering wheels are an example of abundant, inexpensive items you could buy on eBay.
Don’t worry, you don’t need to spend boatloads of money buying LEGO on eBay (unless you want to, of course!). Each item can cost as little as a few dollars, including shipping. Buying loose LEGO items on eBay can be extremely affordable since shipping costs will often range somewhere between only $2-5 for small items (excluding sets or oversized items).
Why buy on eBay before you sell on eBay? Here are three reasons:
1. Buying will help you acclimate to the features and layout of eBay
Signing up for eBay is like moving into a new city. Taking some time to get a sense of the geography of the website and making an effort to interact with the locals (i.e. experienced sellers) will help you have a more enjoyable eBay experience in the long run.
2. Buying will help you build your eBay feedback score
Your feedback score demonstrates your credibility. If you choose to start selling with zero feedback, buyers may be more reluctant to buy from you. You have no track record. How will buyers know you’re not just some fly by night operation? How will buyers know that you’re not some ten year old that “borrowed” his parents personal and financial information to open an eBay account? Buying even just a few items and getting initial feedback demonstrates that (a) you’re a human being and (b) you’re responsible enough to pay for an item that you bought.
3. Buying will help you observe how other sellers run their eBay businesses When you buy an item, you can evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of the item description, find out how securely the seller packs your order, and experience how quickly the seller processes and ships your order. If you encounter a problem with your order (lucky you!), then you’ll discover how the seller attempts to remedy the issue. Throughout your purchases, take notes on everything you like and everything you don’t like so that when you get started selling your own items on eBay, you can emulate the good qualities and avoid the bad and annoying ones.
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Making even just one or two small eBay purchases will impart invaluable insight into the eBay buying and selling experience. Buying before selling not only helps you establish your eBay reputation, but ultimately allows you to learn the habits and tendencies of more experienced sellers as well.