Turn A Profit by Reselling Thrift Store Finds

Making a consistent side income by flipping fabulous Goodwill finds is surprisingly easy - if you know what you're looking for. With the abundance of websites like eBay, Amazon, and even Etsy for vintage treasures, you stand the chance to make plenty of extra cash just by doing just a little extra shopping. Sound too good to be true? It really isn't! If hitting up thrift stores around New Mexico is already a hobby, you can easily resell key items and put that little bit of profit toward your bills, a vacation, or maybe even your next shopping spree! Here we've compiled the basics to get you started on your new adventures flipping Goodwill finds.

As you shop, keep in mind that not all thrift stores are created equal. Some thrift shops offer up everything but the kitchen sink, while others have a curated selection of goods with a big price tag. If you're looking to cruise the aisles for low-priced clothing items, functional electronics, and tons of unique furniture and accessories, try the various Goodwill locations in your area. Since Goodwill is once of the biggest thrift stores in the nation, it offers an ever-changing selection at budget prices.

If you want to resell your finds on sites like eBay, it is wise to do a little bit of  “market research” before you make your next thrift store run. Take a careful look at what seems to be selling on sites like this. Some frequently found items at Goodwill that can fetch a high resell value include books (think college textbooks!), brand name clothing (hello, North Face!), and vintage and sterling silver dishware. When it comes to clothing, keep in mind that the season can influence the price you're able to fetch, so you might not want to list those designer sandals on eBay in December.

As you endeavor to flip key items from local thrift stores, keep an eye on your watch. Consider time versus money as you shop. If you're spending all day rifling cluttered clothing racks for a vintage jacket that you only make a few dollars of profit on, it might not be worth it.

By following  these basic principles, you'll be able to come up with your own formula for success in no time. Even if you arrive at reselling success through trial and error, as a shopper you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that dollars spent at Goodwill add up to meaningful service to our community, whether or not they sell for big bucks online. Good luck out there!


About The Author
Maggie Grimason is a blog writer living in Albuquerque, NM. She grew up in a family of social servants and teachers in northern Indiana and finds that blogging for Goodwill Industries of New Mexico satisfies creative energies as well as her commitment to ethical living and community service.