How To Make Money With Auctions 
by Diana Pemberton-Sikes 

You've no doubt heard about eBay and other online auctions, and you may have wondered what all the fuss was about. Well, let me tell you: it's the ultimate open market experience...without the crowds, the noise, or the hassles. 

With more than a million auctions a week on eBay alone, online auctions are BIG business and growing bigger every month. If you think it's just about getting rid of your junk--think again. 

Yes, you'll find plenty of attic items on these sites, but you'll also find everything from collectibles to livestock to homes listed there as well. People have become addicted to the auction excitement, and many who came to dispose of their cast offs have stayed around...and made big money. 

Here's how: 

*Selling -- Folks who love to frequent garage sales, junk shops, and second hand stores have found a ready market at online auctions. If you have a discerning eye and know how to pick up treasurers for pennies, forget the flea market scene--become a virtual dealer instead and take weekends off. 

*Surplus Inventory -- If you have or can get your hands on overstocked or discounted items, you can sell them online and make money. Why write it off when you can sell it instead? 

*Lead Generation -- A lot of businesses put lead items up for auction and then offer a link back to their web site and main items. You could see a substantial jump in traffic for the nominal cost of offering a lead item. 

Want some other great ideas for making money with auctions? Pick up a copy of Ten Simple Ways to Boost Your Income.

If you don't have any idea where to start or if the thought of putting items up for sale is a little scary, here are some pointers, from eBay Marketing Secrets. 

Start small. Sell your own unwanted items and use the proceeds to buy other items for resale. 

Buy from smaller, lesser know auctions for pennies and resell on eBay for profit. Use the search capability on eBay to see what's being auctioned and what your competition is doing. Lots of bidding = desirable product. No bidding = dud. Keep this in mind when you're looking for things to resell. Remember: research is the key to any successful business. 

For tons more tips and step-by-step instructions on what to do and where to go to get started in this lucrative business, pick up a copy of ? eBay Marketing Secrets, www.niftybusinessideas.com/ideas/auction.htm. You'll learn everything from where to find stuff to  sell to the best days to run your auction to how to build a customer base anxious to bid on your latest finds. 

If you're thinking about starting an online business, but don't have a lot of time, this could be a great option for you. 

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