How do I know if a thrift store item is overpriced?
Research Sold Comps
The most reliable way to judge price is to look at sold listings, not active listings. On eBay, filter by 'Sold Items' to see what buyers actually paid. On Poshmark and Mercari, you can often see sold prices in the item's history or by searching similar items.
Aim for a thrift store price that is at least 20-30% of the expected resale value, though this varies by category. For example, if a used jacket sells for $40, paying more than $8-$12 at a thrift store may not leave enough profit after fees and shipping.
Factor in Condition and Demand
Condition matters: items with flaws, missing parts, or heavy wear sell for less or not at all. Check for stains, tears, or signs of repair. Also consider demand: trendy brands or vintage items may sell quickly, while generic items might sit for months.
Some thrift stores price based on brand or perceived value, but that doesn't guarantee resale success. Just because a store asks $20 for a used item doesn't mean it's worth that on the secondary market.
- Look up sold prices on eBay, Poshmark, or Mercari.
- Calculate fees (typically 10-15% on eBay, 20% on Poshmark).
- Subtract shipping costs if you offer free shipping.
- Consider condition and completeness.
- Set a maximum buy price (e.g., 25% of resale value).
Common mistakes
- Relying on active listing prices instead of sold prices, which can be much higher.
- Ignoring fees and shipping, which can eat 30% or more of the sale price.
- Assuming a brand name always means high resale value; some brands are common and sell low.
