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A Lladro Collectible Lesson For Selling On eBay

When asked for advice about selling a Lladro collectible on eBay, I took the time to distinguish between expensive items and those that are of more modest cost. Every eBay auction, without exception, needs smart sales copy and outstanding pictures. But buyers think much harder about buying an item costing hundreds of dollars than they do about cheaper ones, so there are extras required. We are using the example of a Lladro collectible, but these observations apply equally well to any expensive collectible.

1. Packing is especially important when the merchandise is breakable, like a Lladro figurine. How, exactly, will you ensure safe transit? Think it through before listing your items and make it crystal clear in your auction. All collectors dread the thought of receiving a package that rattles! A collectibles' buyer is fearful of losing her money and she certainly doesn't want the hassle of collecting insurance from the carrier or fighting with you, the seller. She needs to know that you, the seller, have the knowledge to ensure safe delivery of her collectible.

2. Fraud is rampant on the Net. In fact, the reputation for fraud probably exceeds the reality.

So anything you can do to prove that your Lladro figurine is legitimate will win you increased bids. Do you have the original box? Does it have a marking or label? Can you offer a certificate of authenticity or an appraisal by a well known authority? If so, make certain that you let all buyers know, and pictorial proof is highly desirable.

A Lladro collectible figurine that sold on eBay for $6,999.99

Any buyer spending that kind of money is naturally concerned that what she is buying is indeed authentic. This seller wisely offers the kind of proof we are suggesting.

3. Consider offering an escrow service to the buyer. An escrow is a neutral third party that holds the money until both parties are satisfied. Such a service is very reassuring to a nervous buyer. You know you're not a cheat, but a prospective buyer doesn't. Your buyer might not use the escrow service but she won't feel as worried if it is available.

In almost all cases the buyer pays for escrow. Be certain you are specific about this before the sale.

4. Have your opening price absurdly low. Yes, absurdly! What is the smallest amount you will accept for each figurine or other collectible? Use that price as your reserve.

If you must have $700 to make the auction worthwhile, make your opening bid $20 (this is an example only). You aren't at risk as the seller because you don't have to sell unless the price reaches your pre-determined $700.

If you open the bidding at $700 won't will not attract nearly as many buyers as an opening bid of $20. Oddly enough, most often the lower opening bid items end their auctions with higher prices than bids that opened much higher. Logical? No, but it's the way of life on eBay.

5. When figuring shipping cost, include enough for insurance. Do not under any circumstances make this optional with expensive am item like a Lladro figurine. You do not want the liability of a broken figurine and a litigious customer. Any genuine collector will be as eager as you to protect her investment.

6. Some sellers are willing to sell and ship worldwide, while others are not. If you are willing to send your Lladro figurine across the world, realize that your chances of being cheated increase outside the US. We have the Address Verification System (AVS) which is somewhat protective, but outside the country your chances of fraud, especially in 3rd world countries is much higher. This isn't discrimination - it's fact. Make sure you have received genuine fund before mailing abroad and inform international buyers beforehand that there will be a delay. It's not only 'Caveat Emptor' - it's also 'Seller Beware'.

7. The only necessary guarantee is that of fraud protection. A genuine collector knows what she is buying and there is no reason for a return. Besides, are you confident that if a buyer returns your Llado collectible that it will arrive undamaged? Getting into a hassle over broken merchandise should be avoided at all costs.

And of course there is a high potential loss of listing fees with eBay, in the event of a refund.

Remember and follow these special 'rules' for selling a Lladro figurine - and all other such expensive collectibles - for your protection and increased profits.

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How To Sell On eBay