Online Consignment Seller from Home

Sellers who don't have the time or confidence to list items themselves, and online buyers looking for second-hand bargains.

You keep an agreed percentage of each sale, set out in a written agreement. Higher-value items like designer goods usually bring in the most commission for the effort.

• Photography and writing good listings
• Knowing what things are worth
• Organised record keeping
• Customer service

• Check whether your council requires approval for a home-based business, especially if sellers drop items off
• Check each marketplace's selling fees and rules before you set your commission
• Public liability insurance and cover for other people's goods held at your home
• Check your state's rules on second-hand dealers, which may require a licence or record keeping
• Handle returns and disputes fairly, and keep seller payments separate from your own money

Startup costs are typically around $200 to $1,500, depending on your photography gear, packing supplies and equipment. Monthly revenue is typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on what you sell, your commission and how much time you put in.

Check whether your council requires approval for a home-based business, especially if sellers drop items off. Check your state's rules on second-hand dealers, which may require a licence or record keeping, and each marketplace's fees and rules. Look into public liability insurance and cover for others' goods.

Expect typically at least around 8 hours a week. Helpful skills are photography, writing good listings, knowing what things are worth, organised records and customer service. Keep seller payments separate from your own money and handle returns and disputes fairly.