That designer jacket you bought last season? Those video games your kids don't play anymore? Your old smartphone? These forgotten treasures could put cash in your pocket today.
Whether you're saving for a goal or handling an unexpected expense, selling your unused belongings can be an effective way to make money fast. From local garage sales to reselling on Etsy or eBay, you have more options than ever to connect with eager buyers.
Here's your guide to the most profitable things to sell to make money and where to find the best customers.
What can you sell to make money? 15 ideas
Looking to turn forgotten belongings into extra cash? Your home is full of valuable things to sell — you just need to know what people want. Whether it's local buyers on Craigslist or online shoppers on eBay, there's a marketplace for just about everything you own.
Let's check out some of the best ways to make money by reselling things you don't use anymore:
1. Designer clothes and accessories
That brand-name jacket in your closet could be a great way to
make money fast. Designer clothes are some of the best things to sell online — especially pieces from big names.
You can resell clothes on platforms like Poshmark, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace, where many local buyers are happy to pay top dollar for authentic designer pieces. Just make sure to photograph the clothes well and list any flaws honestly.
2. Electronics and gadgets
Got old phones and laptops gathering dust in the closet? These tech odds and ends are some of the fastest things you can resell to make money. The same platforms we mentioned above are perfect for reselling smartphones, gaming consoles, and tablets. You can also see if local tech and gaming stores will buy them from you.
Here's a tip: Always factory reset devices and include original chargers to get the most bang for your buck.
3. Toys and games
From vintage Barbies to intricate LEGO sets, toys consistently sell well online. Your kids' outgrown games and toys could make money quickly, especially during the holiday season. Parents hunt for deals on Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist while toy collectors scour eBay for rare finds.
Always hold onto the original boxes for toys and instruction manuals for games. Complete sets are a great way to maximize reselling value.
4. Collectibles
Trading cards, action figures, and rare coins can earn you serious cash on specialized marketplaces and more general platforms like eBay and Etsy. Collectors love buying vintage items in good condition, making this a great way to start a new
side hustle if you know your stuff.
While eBay remains popular for selling online, local collectible shops can offer fair prices too — and with less hassle. Research recent sales to price your collectible assets right and resell them effectively.
5. Furniture
Quality furniture pieces are some of the best things you can resell for
quick cash. Facebook Marketplace is great for local sales since buyers can easily pick up larger finds.
Take detailed photos and list exact measurements. Most buyers want to make sure pieces fit their space before making the trip out.
6. Sports equipment
Seasonal sports gear is a great way to earn extra money — think winter equipment in fall or bikes in spring. Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and even garage sales work well for local buyers, while eBay helps you reach collectors looking for specific brands.
You can maximize your earnings and avoid misunderstandings by cleaning everything thoroughly and being honest about wear and tear.
7. Books and textbooks
College textbooks are some of the fastest things to sell to make money, especially at the start of a new semester. Some academic books can make you hundreds in extra cash. While eBay and Facebook Marketplace work well, Etsy is perfect for vintage or rare books.
List textbook editions clearly and check competitors' prices. If you're looking to
invest and flip, stock up at garage sales when people clear out their old collections.
8. Musical instruments
Musical instruments hold their value well and consistently sell online and in-person at solid prices. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist work great for local buyers who want to try before they buy, while Etsy specializes in vintage finds.
For a smooth selling experience, especially online, list any wear or damage clearly and include sound samples.
9. Vintage video games
Retro gaming is a booming niche on
platforms like eBay and Etsy. Classic Nintendo and PlayStation games often sell for surprising amounts, especially complete sets with original packaging.
If you're looking for a
side hustle and have the knowledge, try Craigslist, eBay, and local sales for underpriced games you can resell. And if you really want to get involved in the scene, build relationships with fellow collectors to make money through regular trades.
10. Tools and equipment
Professional-grade tools are reliable things to sell for extra cash. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are ideal for local trades, while specialty pieces can make you a mint on eBay.
As with anything subject to wear and tear, document everything in working condition before listing.
11. Gift cards
Unwanted gift cards are surprisingly easy things to sell online, right from your own home. eBay and dedicated reselling sites let you make money from cards you'll never use.
List exact values and expiration dates clearly. While you might earn slightly less than face value, it's better than letting your gift cards sit around in your desk drawer.
12. Kitchen appliances
High-end kitchen goods reliably sell on sites like Etsy and local platforms. From stand mixers to espresso machines, quality appliances make money when properly maintained.
Facebook Marketplace is best for local pickup of heavier pieces. Include original packaging and manuals whenever possible.
13. Vintage records and audio equipment
With the vinyl revival, classic audio equipment and recordings rank among the hottest things to sell online right now. From turntables to speakers, vintage gear can make money on eBay and specialist collector sites. And rare records consistently sell online for impressive profits, especially limited editions and first pressings.
Research model numbers carefully. Some vintage audio pieces make money even in non-working conditions.
14. Crafting supplies
Are you always left with supplies from creative projects you don’t finish? From yarn to art supplies, turn extra craft materials into extra cash on Etsy and other platforms. It's also a great way to connect with fellow creators.
15. Art
Both original artwork and resold pieces work well on Etsy, where creative products bring in serious money every day. Digital designs can also become a steady side hustle on sites like Society6 and Redbubble.
How to sell items online: 4 tips
Knowing what things to sell is just the first step. Maximizing your earnings requires smart strategy. Whether you're selling clothes on eBay or promoting vintage toys, here’s
how to sell stuff online and make money more effectively:
1. Write detailed descriptions
The more information you provide, the better your chances of
making money quickly. Include brand names, exact measurements, and condition details. For clothes, list specific materials and sizing. For toys and collectibles, mention edition numbers or special features.
2. Price competitively
Items tend to move faster when priced slightly below market average. While you can always negotiate down, starting too high might mean your listings get overlooked. Consider seasonal timing too. For example, clothes sell better in fall, while toys often peak before holidays.
3. Communicate professionally
Quick, clear responses to buyer questions help you sell online successfully. Be upfront about shipping costs and timing. If selling locally, confirm meet-up details and choose safe public locations for exchanges.
4. Choose the right platform
Different things to sell perform best on different platforms. For example, clothes often shine on specialized fashion sites like Depop, while local furniture sales thrive on Facebook Marketplace. Understanding where your target buyers shop helps you make money more efficiently.
Don’t want to sell your stuff? EarnIn’s here for you
Selling your belongings can help make you extra money, but parting with items you value isn’t always ideal.
EarnIn can help by offering you access to your pay — up to $150/day, with a max of $750 between pay periods — with no interest, hidden fees, or credit checks.
When you need access to your cash quickly and securely, EarnIn provides a reliable solution that helps you get paid without the stress or sacrifice.
