Closeout goods seller online and at markets

Bargain shoppers browsing online marketplaces and visitors to flea markets and swap meets.

You sell items for more than you paid for the lot. Profit comes from choosing items that sell fast, pricing sensibly and covering fees, shipping and stall costs.

• Researching what sells and at what price
• Taking clear photos and writing listings
• Packing and shipping orders
• Friendly selling face to face

• Sales tax registration for in-person sales and marketplace rules: check with your state's tax agency
• A local business license may be needed even for a home-based seller: check with your city or county
• Home storage of stock may be limited by HOA or lease rules
• Some marketplaces restrict brands, used items or categories, so read their seller policies
• Items with safety rules, such as children's products, cosmetics or electronics, may need extra checks before sale
• Stock can sit unsold and tie up cash, so start with small lots

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on how much stock you buy, packing supplies and whether you rent a market stall or storage. Starting with small lots helps limit tied-up cash.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $4,000, depending on what you sell, your prices and how often you list or attend markets. The estimate assumes at least 8 hours per week.

Check sales tax registration for in-person sales and marketplace seller rules with your state's tax agency, and a local business license with your city or county. Also check HOA or lease limits on home storage, and extra checks for items like children's products, cosmetics or electronics.