Selling records on Ebay sure enough sounds pretty simple. You list the item, somebody who wants it buys it. Not so!!

First of all, a lot of people who do list records, CDs etc on Ebay, are more than happy with just writing a very brief description of the item on offer. This is probably the biggest turn-off for people who are looking for that record they've been searching for for years. The amount of detail you as a seller puts in an item descrition can increase your chances of bids and sales dramatically. In the title of the item, fit as much information in as possible, ie: artist, album name, release year, foreign import, condition etc. Use a sub heading if needed, it does cost more but could be the difference between someone scrolling past your item or spotting the info, taking a closer look then placing a bid!!

First of all, the artist, album/EP/single name are essential. And believe me, there are people out there who dont include this most basic information. Secondly, the label and year must be included. This is important as somebody may bid on an item believing it is an original release, only to find out on receipt of the item that it is actually a later re-release. This can result in negative feedback, and even disputes on Ebay which could have been easily avoided. Also include the catalogue number of the item, this can help potential buyers look up the item on the internet, massively reducing the amount of questions you will be asked, and minimizing lost bids.

Tell potential bidders about the grading of your item!! This has to be a neccesity when listing rare records. People who collect records would obviously prefer a mint - near mint copy of the item they are after. But if that record is extremely hard to find, they would probably settle for one that has been 'worn in' so to put it. Always include any wear to the outer/inner sleeves: creasing, scuffed corners, surface scratches, stickers/ sticker residue etc. Believe it or not, listing these will point towards your honesty with potential buyers, and they will feel safer bidding with you as they know exactly what they are going to get. Then there is the vinyl itself. Describe any marks, scratches etc, because dont forget, you may have a record with immaculate sleeves, but the record itself could be scratched to high heaven and virtually unplayable. Again, this breeds confidence with potential buyers. In a nutshell, when it comes to describing your item on offer, BE HONEST.

One other important factor is the rarity of the item. Now its a fact that some people dont know the value of the item they are listing. Research it first!! You may be listing a rare Japanese import, or a record that only had limited release numbers. All this information lets bidders know that they are bidding on an item that is not widely available. Point out any bonus tracks, misprintings to the label, outer sleeve, inner sleeve etc. The more information you can find out about the item - the better.

Track listings are important too. List them all, including any remixes, edits, dubs, demos, live tracks etc. and who remixed it. If there are live tracks on the record, list where it was recorded if possible and in what year.

Lastly, tell people how you are going to post them their item. Records are best being posted in 12" jiffy bags, with hard card either side of the record to stop the record being damaged or bent in the post. Bidders will feel a lot safer knowing their purchase will be safe during transit.

Hopefully this guide will help all record sellers increase their sales, and in turn record collectors find that elusive item easier and safer.