If you’re looking for a low-risk side hustle that doesn’t require a website, ads, or a huge upfront investment, eBay might be your best bet. It’s one of the original online marketplaces and it still works. Whether you want to declutter your home or build a full resale business, this guide will walk you through how to get started on eBay step by step. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can start making money as soon as today.
Why eBay Is Still a Great Side Hustle in 2025
eBay is one of the easiest ways to make money online because:
- You don’t need your own website or brand.
- You can start with stuff you already have at home.
- The platform already has millions of buyers searching daily.
- eBay handles the transaction, customer messaging, and shipping tools.
Whether you’re flipping items from thrift stores, selling collectibles, or reselling overstock products, there’s a buyer out there for almost everything.
Step 1: Create a Free eBay Account
Start by heading to eBay.com and clicking “Sign Up.” You can choose a personal or business account, but personal is fine when you’re starting out.
Once you sign up:
- Add a profile photo and some basic bio info.
- Set up your payment method (eBay now pays sellers via direct deposit).
- Link a debit card or bank account to receive your payouts.
Step 2: Look Around Your House for Items to Sell
Before buying inventory, start with what you already own. This is called the “zero-cost” method.
Look for:
- Old electronics, like phones, cameras, or chargers.
- Gently used shoes or clothes from brands like Nike, Patagonia, or Levi’s.
- Kitchen tools, home decor, or unused appliances.
- Books, video games, or collectibles.
Search for the item on eBay and filter for “Sold Listings” to see how much similar items actually sold for. This helps you price your item realistically.
Step 3: Take Photos and Write a Simple Title
Good photos make a big difference. Use natural lighting and a clean background. Take pictures from multiple angles, and include close-ups of any flaws. For your title, use simple, keyword-rich phrases that buyers would type into search.
Example:
Bad Title: “Nice shoes”
Good Title: “Nike Air Max 270 Black White Size 9 Men’s Running Shoes”
eBay is like a search engine—more detail helps you get found.
Step 4: Write the Description and Choose Your Price
In the description box:
- Include condition, measurements (if needed), and any details not in the title.
- Mention if the item has any scratches or wear.
- Be honest. Buyers care more about accurate info than perfect condition.
For pricing:
- Use the “Sold Listings” to determine market value.
- You can choose “Auction” (bidding starts low and runs for 7 days) or “Buy It Now” (fixed price).
- For beginners, “Buy It Now” with “Best Offer” turned on works well.
Step 5: Set Up Shipping and List the Item
eBay makes shipping easy. You can use their shipping calculator or pick a flat rate based on the item’s size and weight.
Tips:
- Use USPS First Class for items under 1 pound.
- Use USPS Priority or UPS Ground for heavier stuff.
- Always include tracking.
Once listed, eBay will show your item to potential buyers across the country. When it sells, you’ll get a prepaid shipping label to print, tape to your box, and drop off at the post office.
Step 6: Reinvest Your Profits into Inventory
Now that you’ve made your first sale, take that cash and look for new items to flip.
Popular ways to find inventory:
- Thrift stores: Look for brand-name clothing, shoes, or kitchen items.
- Garage sales: Cash deals and bundles are common.
- Facebook Marketplace: People give away stuff for free or cheap.
- Retail arbitrage: Clearance items at Walmart or Target can be resold for profit.
The more you do this, the better you’ll get at spotting undervalued items.
What Sells Best on eBay in 2025?
These categories are consistent performers:
- Sneakers and streetwear
- Vintage electronics (iPods, old cameras)
- Tools and home improvement items
- Collectibles (cards, toys, vinyl records)
- Brand-name fashion (especially pre-owned)
- Car parts and accessories
- Unused health and beauty products (sealed)
If it’s something people buy often, and you can offer it at a good price, there’s a market for it.
Tips to Boost Sales
- Use good keywords in your titles and descriptions.
- Offer free shipping if you can—buyers love it.
- Respond quickly to messages and offers.
- List items regularly—the more you list, the more you sell.
- Keep your seller rating high by shipping fast and being honest.
eBay rewards active sellers with better visibility.
How Much Can You Make on eBay?
This depends on your time, effort, and what you’re selling. Some people make $100 to $500 per month flipping part-time. Others build it into a full-time reselling business.
You don’t need a warehouse or staff. You just need consistency and a willingness to learn. Many six-figure resellers started with just one sale from their closet.
Final Thoughts: Why eBay Is Worth Trying
The best thing about eBay is how simple it is to start. You don’t need ads, a logo, or an audience. All you need is your phone and a product to sell. It’s beginner-friendly, low-cost, and teaches you real business skills like marketing, pricing, customer service, and inventory management.
If you’re trying to start a side hustle but feel stuck, eBay is the fastest way to get off the ground. No excuses. Just start listing.