When posting items for sale it can be tempting to post several different items in one ad and be done with it. While it's perfectly OK to do this for a yard sale ad, it can greatly reduce your probability of finding the right buyer for your items if you don't post in separate ads. Most classified sites, including ZippyTrader, are optimized to give your ad maximum results in the search engines. Part of this optimization is presenting specific items in a structured format so that they display well when appearing in the search engines. When you mix items in an ad it can confuse the search engine. In some cases the search engine displays the correct ad, but because there are several differing items in the listing the wrong one will be displayed in the search results and a prospective buyer may overlook your ad completely.
No matter how many items you are selling, be sure to post on more than one classifieds site. Posting on multiple sites increases search engine exposure. The various search engines see sites differently. Add localization into the mix and each search engine can give very different result for the same search from a different location, even from the same search engine. Posting on different sites allows you to take advantage of each site's strengths. Some sites do better in metropolitan areas, while other sites like ZippyTrader provide strong results in smaller cities and towns. Take the time to list each item in a separate ad and post across multiple sites to get maximum results.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Trash or Treasure?
When I go to yard sales or to view an item listed in the classifieds, it sometimes amazes me at how dirty some items are. Some yard sales look like everything has been pulled from the attic where it has lived for 10 years and put on display without being touched. I've seen cars that could simply use a wash and wax, and silver pieces that were so tarnished they looked like antique bronze. Glass items that should sparkle look dull and boring. It's easy to neglect items when you no longer want them, but if you treat your items like junk when you are selling them, people will see your items as junk and pass them by.
Fortunately for me there are many sellers who ignore the most important step in marketing their items. Presentation. I find those diamonds in the filth, clean them up, then sell them online for many times my investment. The only difference is a few cents worth of cleaning product, a few minutes, and a little effort. Holding a yard sale requires a considerable amount of effort to begin with, so it makes no sense to go through the motions, then not take a little extra time to display your items in their best possible condition. Present your items as treasures and you will fetch a premium price.
Blow that dust off. Use a small brush to work dirt out of cracks and tight spaces. 70% strength rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle is fantastic for cleaning glass and crystal without spots or streaks. Clean silver with any quality polish. Virtually any other metal items can be restored to brilliance with Semichrome Polish.
A good household cleaner like 409 is perfect for cleaning most large appliances. Automotive spray detailing products like are perfect for making appliances and other items shine like new. I prefer the Acrylic Polymer Detailer Quick Detail Spray.
Wax-free furniture cleaners are good for most wood products. When cleaning electronic items, always spray the cleaning product on the cloth, never directly on the item. A car should look ready to go. Wash and wax cars and park them where you would normally park if it was driven daily.
Never forget that you are selling treasure. Take the time to present your items at their best and you will always get top dollar in return.
Fortunately for me there are many sellers who ignore the most important step in marketing their items. Presentation. I find those diamonds in the filth, clean them up, then sell them online for many times my investment. The only difference is a few cents worth of cleaning product, a few minutes, and a little effort. Holding a yard sale requires a considerable amount of effort to begin with, so it makes no sense to go through the motions, then not take a little extra time to display your items in their best possible condition. Present your items as treasures and you will fetch a premium price.
Blow that dust off. Use a small brush to work dirt out of cracks and tight spaces. 70% strength rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle is fantastic for cleaning glass and crystal without spots or streaks. Clean silver with any quality polish. Virtually any other metal items can be restored to brilliance with Semichrome Polish.
A good household cleaner like 409 is perfect for cleaning most large appliances. Automotive spray detailing products like are perfect for making appliances and other items shine like new. I prefer the Acrylic Polymer Detailer Quick Detail Spray.Wax-free furniture cleaners are good for most wood products. When cleaning electronic items, always spray the cleaning product on the cloth, never directly on the item. A car should look ready to go. Wash and wax cars and park them where you would normally park if it was driven daily.Never forget that you are selling treasure. Take the time to present your items at their best and you will always get top dollar in return.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
QR Code Enhanced Classifieds
So how can you use this QR code? First, we've included your QR code on a custom "For Sale" sign that you can print from your computer. Put that sign on a car, motorcycle, or whatever you are selling and people will be able to get complete information in an instant We also give you the option of downloading just the QR code for use in other material. That flyer for your lost dog can now quickly link to your Lost & Found ad with 16 full-color photos of your dog plus a video. Maybe your business has an ad in our services section. Put your QR code on a yard sign to display at your projects. People can quickly read about your company and services, see photos of your work, and watch a video introduction for your company. It's like having an instant mobile website for free. Post an event and include detailed information plus photos and video from previous events. Put your QR code on flyers, posters, and other materials.
Those are just a few examples of how you can use your QR code. I'm sure there are plenty more I haven't thought of. Be creative and have a little fun.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Am I Crazy?
"Are you crazy?!" That was the response from a friend when he heard about ZippyTrader. You see, he figures that launching another classifieds site with so many others out there is foolish, if not totally crazy. Not only am I up against the big guys like Craigslist and ebay classifieds, but there are thousands of local and regional classifieds sites out there, so the question was valid.
First, I am not new to online classifieds. I have operated a successful regional classifieds site for nearly a decade. Plus, my classifieds software powers hundreds of classifieds sites across the nation and around the world. I didn't just wake up one morning and decide to begin the most challenging project of my life. ZippyTrader is more than a classifieds site. It is a number of ideas and beliefs wrapped into one project. ZippyTrader is more of a mission than a business.
It is a belief that we must protect our Mother Earth by reusing as much as possible. A belief that one person's junk truly is another person's treasure. What may be collecting dust in one home could be vital in another home. (Just yesterday I heard of a Texas woman who died from the heat after her air conditioner was stolen. How many air conditioners are sitting in garages right now collecting dust?) A belief that the internet should connect neighborhoods to local business rather than alienate them. A belief that I can create opportunity for a few hundred people to move from being unemployed to self-employed. A belief that you shouldn't fear online classifieds. It should be a safe, family-friendly place. And finally, a belief that maybe I can do it just a little better by doing some things differently.
So, how is ZippyTrader different? We don't require registration. We don't collect personal information. We don't skim emails or share information with anyone. We don't require a credit card. We don't have adult categories. We don't have phone-based verification (which doesn't work with VOIP and cell phones). We don't send you to the nearest major town or region. (In my case that can be two states away depending on the site.) You can shop your local ZIP code or as far away as you want. It's your choice. Our filters virtually eliminate scam and spam ads and replies. Every ad is reviewed by people. We don't limit the number of words you can use in your ad. We give you space for 16 photos plus a video. We give you the option of map links to your city or an exact address. Every ad gets a unique QR code to use in off-line materials that links to a mobile version of your ad (currently optimized for iphone, but works well with others, too) at m.ZippyTrader.com. Each ad includes an easy to read printable sign which includes your QR code.
The "we" refers to myself and the City Partners who have joined the project. These are owner/operators in cities and towns across the USA. They are your local contact and advertising representative. Because they are local business owners themselves, 99% of commercial advertising revenue stays in the community. They are also responsible for moderating ads and providing an added level of anti-fraud protection that can only be achieved at the local level. My goal is to have a city partner in hundreds of cities and towns across America. Not only does this improve your experience on ZippyTrader, but it also gives hundreds of people an opportunity to leave the unemployment lines and be self-employed. I strive to recruit City Partners from the ranks of the unemployed and change as many lives as possible. I believe in people. I award partnerships based on what one can do, not what one has done. And, no, this is not MLM in any form.
So... am I crazy?
First, I am not new to online classifieds. I have operated a successful regional classifieds site for nearly a decade. Plus, my classifieds software powers hundreds of classifieds sites across the nation and around the world. I didn't just wake up one morning and decide to begin the most challenging project of my life. ZippyTrader is more than a classifieds site. It is a number of ideas and beliefs wrapped into one project. ZippyTrader is more of a mission than a business.
It is a belief that we must protect our Mother Earth by reusing as much as possible. A belief that one person's junk truly is another person's treasure. What may be collecting dust in one home could be vital in another home. (Just yesterday I heard of a Texas woman who died from the heat after her air conditioner was stolen. How many air conditioners are sitting in garages right now collecting dust?) A belief that the internet should connect neighborhoods to local business rather than alienate them. A belief that I can create opportunity for a few hundred people to move from being unemployed to self-employed. A belief that you shouldn't fear online classifieds. It should be a safe, family-friendly place. And finally, a belief that maybe I can do it just a little better by doing some things differently.
So, how is ZippyTrader different? We don't require registration. We don't collect personal information. We don't skim emails or share information with anyone. We don't require a credit card. We don't have adult categories. We don't have phone-based verification (which doesn't work with VOIP and cell phones). We don't send you to the nearest major town or region. (In my case that can be two states away depending on the site.) You can shop your local ZIP code or as far away as you want. It's your choice. Our filters virtually eliminate scam and spam ads and replies. Every ad is reviewed by people. We don't limit the number of words you can use in your ad. We give you space for 16 photos plus a video. We give you the option of map links to your city or an exact address. Every ad gets a unique QR code to use in off-line materials that links to a mobile version of your ad (currently optimized for iphone, but works well with others, too) at m.ZippyTrader.com. Each ad includes an easy to read printable sign which includes your QR code.
The "we" refers to myself and the City Partners who have joined the project. These are owner/operators in cities and towns across the USA. They are your local contact and advertising representative. Because they are local business owners themselves, 99% of commercial advertising revenue stays in the community. They are also responsible for moderating ads and providing an added level of anti-fraud protection that can only be achieved at the local level. My goal is to have a city partner in hundreds of cities and towns across America. Not only does this improve your experience on ZippyTrader, but it also gives hundreds of people an opportunity to leave the unemployment lines and be self-employed. I strive to recruit City Partners from the ranks of the unemployed and change as many lives as possible. I believe in people. I award partnerships based on what one can do, not what one has done. And, no, this is not MLM in any form.
So... am I crazy?
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Yard Sale Profits
In my last entry I mentioned how I make lots of money using the price advantage of classifieds, auctions, and Amazon over yard sales. The price differential can be huge. I typically get a $5 to $10 return for every dollar invested.
When you go yard sale shopping you will discover that there two types of yard sales - those where they are trying to get rid of stuff (good), and those where they are trying to make money (bad). You will quickly learn to identify which is which and move on quickly when necessary.
When you find a good sale you want to scan quickly but carefully. There are many good finds hiding at many sales and you will learn what to look for as you go. It is helpful, if not necessary, to have internet access on your cell phone so that you can check current street prices on items of interest. It has saved me a few times. If you are looking at something that uses consumables, like printers, make sure that supplies are still readily available or the item will be worthless. Also keep in mind recalls and outright bans on items. For example drop-side cribs are now banned for sale, resale or even donation.
Here are some examples of my recent buy/sell prices.
It is vital that you buy things that you know well enough to make a smart buying decision. I do well with electronics. I stumbled upon china when trying to find a replacement piece for my mother's china. That one little piece was quite expensive, but if you have a full set of quality china it is a small price to keep the set complete. I learned the quality brands and now do quite well with these items. They may take longer to sell, but the profits are high enough that it is worth it.
Well, there you have it. It's not complicated. It's a fun "job" that anyone can do. One important final note though. Poker face. When you do make a find, don't make it obvious or you will have no bargaining power. Remember, it's a yard sale. Don't be afraid to bargain for a lower price. That said, there are times I do find it hard not to smile when I know how much money I am about to make.
Good luck!
When you go yard sale shopping you will discover that there two types of yard sales - those where they are trying to get rid of stuff (good), and those where they are trying to make money (bad). You will quickly learn to identify which is which and move on quickly when necessary.
When you find a good sale you want to scan quickly but carefully. There are many good finds hiding at many sales and you will learn what to look for as you go. It is helpful, if not necessary, to have internet access on your cell phone so that you can check current street prices on items of interest. It has saved me a few times. If you are looking at something that uses consumables, like printers, make sure that supplies are still readily available or the item will be worthless. Also keep in mind recalls and outright bans on items. For example drop-side cribs are now banned for sale, resale or even donation.
Here are some examples of my recent buy/sell prices.
- Laser printers: $5/$25-$50
- Inkjet printers: $1-$3/$10-$25
- China pieces: $.75-$2/$20-$50
- Family Radio Walkie-Talkie: $1/$20
- Weather Alert Radio (new in sealed package): $8/$45.
It is vital that you buy things that you know well enough to make a smart buying decision. I do well with electronics. I stumbled upon china when trying to find a replacement piece for my mother's china. That one little piece was quite expensive, but if you have a full set of quality china it is a small price to keep the set complete. I learned the quality brands and now do quite well with these items. They may take longer to sell, but the profits are high enough that it is worth it.
Well, there you have it. It's not complicated. It's a fun "job" that anyone can do. One important final note though. Poker face. When you do make a find, don't make it obvious or you will have no bargaining power. Remember, it's a yard sale. Don't be afraid to bargain for a lower price. That said, there are times I do find it hard not to smile when I know how much money I am about to make.
Good luck!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Classifieds vs. Yard Sale
I am often asked what advantages listing in the classifieds has over a yard sale. The primary and most important difference for all of us is price. The classifieds always get a better price than a yard sale. Always! How much better? Often up to 5 times more. In fact, I use that advantage to make lots of money, but that's a different.article to come. First, I will tell you some items that you never want to sell through the classifieds or a yard sale.
In contrast, classified shoppers know exactly what they want and are looking for a quality used item at a fair price. They are more interested in getting a good value than a cheap price. They are prepared to pay much more for what they want. They also want to spend as little time as possible shopping, often buying the first item they look at. This means your items are likely to sell much quicker and for more money in the classifieds than a yard sale. If you think about it, there are few items that cannot be sold more effectively through the classifieds.
All that said, there are still some items that are destined for the yard sale. Home decor items top the list. These are usually impulse buys and do well at a yard sale, but don't expect to get a premium price. Clothing is still a yard sale favorite, but clothing can also do well in the classifieds if you bundle like items together.
Each sales channel has certain advantages for certain items. Smart sellers will take the time to do a little research a select the best channel for each item. The rewards for doing so can be great.
Happy selling!
- Collectibles: Collectibles should always be sold through an auction site like ebay. The value of a collectible is limited only by the desire of the collector to have what you are selling. If two or more collectors compete for the item it can be very good for you. It is important to decide what is the absolute minimum you will accept for the item (don't forget commissions to the auction site) and set a reserve at that price.
- New items: Sometimes we receive a gift that we never get around to exchanging, or buy extra of something and never use it. If you have something new and unopened that will ship easily your best option is Amazon.com. Even some used but like new items will fetch a premium price there.
In contrast, classified shoppers know exactly what they want and are looking for a quality used item at a fair price. They are more interested in getting a good value than a cheap price. They are prepared to pay much more for what they want. They also want to spend as little time as possible shopping, often buying the first item they look at. This means your items are likely to sell much quicker and for more money in the classifieds than a yard sale. If you think about it, there are few items that cannot be sold more effectively through the classifieds.
All that said, there are still some items that are destined for the yard sale. Home decor items top the list. These are usually impulse buys and do well at a yard sale, but don't expect to get a premium price. Clothing is still a yard sale favorite, but clothing can also do well in the classifieds if you bundle like items together.
Each sales channel has certain advantages for certain items. Smart sellers will take the time to do a little research a select the best channel for each item. The rewards for doing so can be great.
Happy selling!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Welcome
Welcome to ZippyTrader classifieds. ZippyTrader was designed from the ground up to be just a little different than most online classifieds. The first thing you will notice is that you don't have to share any personal information. A valid email address is all you need to place an ad in most categories. Some high-risk categories may require a phone number. All ads are free, so there is no need for credit card information. Another thing you will notice is there are no forums, chat rooms, or adult categories. We strive to be family-friendly.
You will also notice that ZippyTrader gives every town its own classifieds based on ZIP code.We don't send you to the nearest big city. You can shop right in your own town or hundreds of miles around. It's up to you.
To post an ad simply fill out the ad form. Click the verification link in the email that will be sent to you and your ad will online in a matter of minutes in most cases. If your ad doesn't appear right away it may have been sent to be reviewed one of our security specialists. Don't take it personally. Our anti-spam and anti-scam filters are very sensitive for maximum security. Ads are normally reviewed and released within an hour.
You will also notice that ZippyTrader gives every town its own classifieds based on ZIP code.We don't send you to the nearest big city. You can shop right in your own town or hundreds of miles around. It's up to you.
To post an ad simply fill out the ad form. Click the verification link in the email that will be sent to you and your ad will online in a matter of minutes in most cases. If your ad doesn't appear right away it may have been sent to be reviewed one of our security specialists. Don't take it personally. Our anti-spam and anti-scam filters are very sensitive for maximum security. Ads are normally reviewed and released within an hour.
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