Online Creativity: Garage Sale App Reviews

Sometimes we tend to be heavy on the ‘strategy’ side of sellingonline. Other times we focus on the nuts and bolts. I know that not all of my readers are looking for used inventory to resell online -but bear with me on this one as we look at apps to make shopping at garage sales an easier way to build inventory…. and, if you have a question that is more relevant to your particular needs, please share! As things have shifted a bit for eBay sellers (and many aren’t even selling on eBay anymore), I’d like to know what kind ofinformation YOU are looking for? I can share my own experiences, thoughts and strategies – but, hearing from you will help me make this newsletter more valuable for you.
Thanks… I look forward to hearing from you!
Jenni

Garage Sale Apps
A few years ago I shared my strategy for using garage sales tobuild inventory to resell online… This was right before smart phones made their debut…Garage sales are still my favorite places to hit to find treasuresto sell! And with all the apps available today, it is gettingeasier to be efficient when out hitting garage sales. I’ve been looking at a few apps to help find and map out a route to garagesales and thought I’d share my thoughts with you.

IGarageSale
This is one of my favorites. I use it regularly because it maps out a route so I can make the most of my time when I’m out and about. I use the pro version because I can search for specific items orcategories such as “baby gear” or “Fisher Price”. I also like the way it links you back to the original posting (on craigslist orelsewhere) instead of relying on those who are hosting garage sales to advertise on their app.

Online Creativity: Pinterest, eBay and Amazon

I received an email from Kitty, one of my subscribers this week with an excellent question. She sells on eBay and wanted to know if Pinterest would still be of value to her.

Here is my answer…if you are simply selling on eBay (Or Amazon for that matter), this might help you decide if Pinterest if for you.

The way to look at Pinterest is as an opportunity to influence your market with this new tool. Pinterest is growing so quickly and is having enough of an effect on search engine results – that it shouldn’t be ignored…

Here is one way you can use Pinterest if you are only selling physical products online and do not have awebsite of your own:
Let’s say you are selling pet care items

- You could set up your account on Pinterest with a link in your profile pointing to your eBay auctions.
- You would pin items to your Pinterest account that have to do with pets that you find… not necessarily products.
- but information ofinterest as well.- As you influence the Pinterest world and ‘pet care’ niche, those following you would be motivated to check out your profile and go to your auctions.
- In the mean time, you are building yourself as the person ofinfluence and expertise in the Pinterest community for all things related to pet care.

Learn more about the Start Here Pinterest for Business Training course here: http://www.starthereprogram.com/Pinterest
And, don’t forget to get in before midnight to take advantage ofthat $20 credit!

Get your $20 cash back credit!

If you are sitting on the fence with any of the topics covered in the Start Here Series (blogging for business, publishing an ebook, building a mailing list, creating a membership site, or using Pinterest for business)…NOW is the time so you can get a $20 credit towards a 2nd course!

Auction Strategists: Residual and Automatic Income Part III

Auction Strategists Newsletter
In This Issue:

1. Residual and Automatic Income – Part III
2. Free Marketing!

*** Residual and Automatic Income – Part III ***

We have been talking about the value of having a membership site as a part of your online business strategy in the last few newsletters.

You are right – it might not sound like an eBay topic… but, I have often said that if you have all of your eggs in the ‘eBay basket’ than not only are you leaving money on the table – but, you are working too hard!

You can USE eBay to build an audience for your market or niche…and then drive your traffic to other products you offer such as a blog, an ebook, or a membership site… the list really does go on and on..

But, lately, we have been talking about building a very simple membership site. Membership sites are great no matter what market you are in. Not only do they provide the security of a monthly income, but they are an excellent way to build relationship withyour customers… and it doesn’t have to be complicated – OR take alot of your time!

In fact, today I want to share with you how you can set it up andthen forget about it! Seriously.

See, it use to be complicated to get a membership site up andrunning… and then, upkeep was extremely time-consuming!
But, that has all changed!!

I’ve put together a 5 part series that shares some of the gold-nuggets in this new Start Here Membership course I’ve been developing that walks you through setting up your own membership site.

If you are interested in learning more about what a membership site looks like and how it can be a revenue generating tool for your online business, then you’ll want to follow along.

Auction Strategists: Residual and Automatic Income – Part II

Auction Strategists Newsletter

In this issue:
1. Residual and Automatic Income – Part II

*** Residual and Automatic Income – Part II ***

We have been talking about the value of building a membership site.

I know, I know… on the outside, it might not seem like a topic eBay sellers would be interested in.

Let me ask you something – Do you have a business that is completely dependent on eBay? I mean, is all of your income coming from auctions you list on eBay?

If so… How is that working for you?

Don’t get me wrong – I believe eBay is a fantastic tool for online business owners. My business has been built around eBay; however, if you think that all of my revenue comes from auctions – you’re mistaking. I have learned to USE my eBay business to grow multiple revenue streams…

And YOU CAN TOO!

There are so many ways to do this… it isn’t even funny. We have talked about many of them here. From blogging… to writing and publishing an eBook, to pointing people to Amazon for commissions… to building a mailing list…

But lately, I’ve started talking about building a very simplemembership site.

As I mentioned a few days ago in a previous newsletter, the beautyof membership sites is that it gives you the security of a monthly income.

Think about that for a minute. What if you could haverepeat customers… month after month?

For years I have been talking about the importance of building relationship with your customers… We have talked about how much easier it is to sell to an existing or previous customer than tofind a new one.

Auction Strategists: Costumes Are On The Rise!

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Auction Strategists Newsletter
Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com
In this newsletter:
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1. Costumes Are On The Rise!
2. Residual and Automatic Income Riches – Part 1
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Costumes Are On The Rise
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It’s September and although many are thinking… BACK TO SCHOOL… eBay shoppers are pretty much past that and onto bigger and better things – like COSTUMES!
Yep! Costumes are on the rise… Do you know what’s selling?
(read on to find 5 of the top used costumes from last week)
Sherah Taylor has done it again – She has updated her very popular eBook, Secrets of High Profit Halloween Costumes for 2011. Once again, it is getting rave reviews.
Sherah was the publisher for Auction-Moms for 7 years and is well known for selling USED Disney Boo Costumes for over $120! She finds them for around $10 and turns them around on eBay.
All you need to know is which costumes sell the best… and Sherah lists over 250 USED costumes that sell regularly for $20-$80 on eBay this time of year in her eBook.
Not only that, but she spills the beans on how she works her magic with costume auctions – if you sell costumes (or even if you don’t – but want to), this is a MUST HAVE resource!
In fact, in this economy, this niche is perfect for online sellers because the turn around on inventory is so quick. You can, literally buy used costumes at thrift shops and consignment stores – and list them as soon as you get home!… Instant profits! And NOW is the perfect time for selling costumes.
Sherah is selling her eBook for $29… But, she is offering a deal that you will ONLY FIND FROM ME! (I pulled a few strings ;-)
You can get her book immediately for only $17!!
Get your hands on Secrets of High Profit Halloween Costumes and save ONLY from HERE.
Alright… earlier I mentioned that I’d share with you 5 of the top selling USED costumes for this week.
Here you go… Enjoy!
1)Item: Pottery Barn Kids French Fries Costume 2T / 3T Twins
Item number: 320748294451
Ending Price: $62.00 with 2 days left
Starting Bid: $.99
#Bids: 12
2) Item: Donald Duck Costume 18-24 Months
Item number: 220838620339
Ending Price: $51.00 with 1 day left
Starting Bid: $30.00
#Bids: 8
3)Item: Baby Lil’ Blu Monster Halloween Costume 12-18 months
Item number: 250879266267
Ending Price: $40.00 with 2 days left
Starting Bid: $9.99
#Bids: 31
4)Item: Very Rare Disney Store Beauty and the Beast Costume XXS
Item number: 300591749662
Ending Price: $36.00 with 3 days left
Starting Bid: $.99
#Bids: 7
5)Item: Babystyle Peacock
Item number: 320748328589
Ending Price: $36.00 with 5 days left
Starting Bid: $25.00
#Bids: 6
For $17 bucks, you can have immediate access to Sherah’s book… and be shopping for used costume inventory tomorrow. Costume selling season is NOW guys – if you wait just a few weeks, you’ll miss it!
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2. Residual and Automatic Income – Part 1
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I wonder if any of you are like me…
I have this curse where my mind just doesn’t seem to take a break. I’m always coming up with new ideas – and often it keeps me up at night…
I’m an idea person to the CORE.
Membership sites have been on my mind lately as I have been writing a step-by-step course that helps beginners build their very own… and, as I’ve been writing the course, I have just been blown away by how much potential there is for ANYONE to build an automated revenue stream from these kinds of sites.
As an online business owner, having a membership site should be at the top of your business ‘to-do’ list for a variety of reasons.
Why?
One of the biggest reasons…
A membership site gives you the SECURITY of a monthly income.
Think about it. Which is easier…
A. Finding 12 customers to buy ONE product, or
B. Finding 1 customer to make TWELVE automatic purchases?
There is no question about it… it is easier to find that ONE
customer than TWELVE.
And that is the beauty of a membership site… your customer
automatically spends money with you month after month to keep up
their membership!
It’s RESIDUAL income and it provides the ultimate security for
internet business owners (even eBayers!!). You know it is coming in
every single month… those rebills are your security blanket…
it’s revenue you can count on like clockwork.
You might be wondering, “What in the world does this have to do with selling on eBay?”
Well, here is the thing. If you are serious about building an online business, then you are probably aware that your reselling arsenol must be bigger than eBay… online success doesn’t come from putting all your eggs in one basket! Nope – it is important to have multiple revenue streams… and what is super cool is that you can create multiple revenue streams from the same audience!
For years I have been talking about the importance of building relationship with your customers… We have talked about how much easier it is to sell to an existing or previous customer than to find a new one.
Up until recently, setting up your own membership site has been a
bit of a challenge. Complicated and pricey ‘scripts’ to buy and
install that make membership sites work can be a huge pain… plus,
it can be a challenge to have the pressure to create consistent
content.
However… That has all changed!!
I’ve put together a 5 part series that shares some of the gold-nuggets in this new Start Here Membership course I’ve been developing. If you are interested in learning more about what a membership site looks like and how it can be a revenue generating tool for your online business, then you’ll want to follow along.
Get the first article HERE.
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Copyright 2009-2012 Jenni Hunt, www.jennihunt.com
You MAY reprint any of the articles in this newsletter for any
purpose as long as no portion of the article is modified without
permission.

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Using Amazon for increased revenue – Without Selling!

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Auction Strategists Newsletter
Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com
In this newsletter:
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1. Using Amazon’s big traffic to make money (no selling here!)
2. Don’t Miss MY Garage Sale – Nothing Held Back!
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
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There has been a lot of buzz about Amazon lately… and rightly so! It looks like Amazon has finally surpassed eBay by having 4% more visitors this summer…
So, my question to you is:
How does this effect what you are doing with your eBay business?
Are you still JUST selling on eBay? Although I think eBay is a very viable revenue stream, I’ve long taught that it is extremely important to not have all of your eggs in the ebay basket!
What if eBay closes your account?
What if they shut down for whatever reason?
Will your business survive?

If eBay is just one or two of the eggs you have in your basket – you will be able to recover any losses rather quickly; however, if all of your revenue is generated from selling inventory on eBay… let me encourage you to take a serious look at your business model!
It all goes back to taking control back from eBay!
Well – one of the super cool things about the internet today is that you (we) have many… many options for selling product (or reselling, if that is the case for you).
We have eBay.
We have craigslist.
We have facebook.
We have amazon.
… I could really go on and on, right?
Here is something you might not have thought of…
Did you know that you can make money selling on Amazon without actually selling? In fact, as we come up on the holiday season, you’ll want to be implementing this strategy to increase your revenue significantly!
See, Amazon, like many other sites has an affiliate program. They call it their ‘associate program’. The gist is that once you are an associate, you can send people to ANY amazon page through a special link amazon gives you and when people click through that link and buy something, you get a percentage.
Here is the super cool part… are you ready?
You get a percentage of ANYTHING they buy within 30 days of when they originally clicked on the link. They don’t even have to buy what you promoted to them!
Think about this…
All you have to do is get people to CLICK on your link.
You know they are going to be visiting Amazon again soon (especially as the holidays get closer) to do some shopping… and when they do, your link will be cookied and you will earn a super easy commission!
You don’t have to sell anything.
You don’t have to ship anything.
Nope… nada!
Just have them simply click.
so – you might ask what this really looks like in an online business model.
Well, Many of you have taken advantage of my Start Here Program and set up a blog to build traffic… some of you have gone through my List Building course… and some of you have built your own customer base. Some of you have a Facebook page for your online business and have followers you can share information (ie., amazon links) with… All of these tools have helped you build a readership that you can promote Amazon products to.
The question comes down to – How do you get your readers to click?
This is where you need to get creative… There are lots of things you can do – here are a few ideas to get the wheels turning:
1. pull together a comparison list of products your market might be interested in that sell on Amazon… and include your affiliate link to each product. For example, perhaps your market is interested in weight loss products, you could provide a review of the top 5 that are sold on Amazon. In that review link to those amazon products with your associate link!
2. Generate a top 10 recommendations of products your readers are likely to be interested in. Don’t include images of the products – just links. This way they have to click over to amazon to view the picture… setting your associatelink.
3. If it is appropriate, tell your readers how to be a part of the amazonassociate program – and have the associate program link be your special link so it gets cookied ;-)
I’ve had great luck with all of the above… especially around the holidays because people are already going to Amazon to shop – you are just encouraging them to go through your link one time.
Alright – so how do you sign up for the associate program on amazon?
Simple.
1. Go to Amazon.com and scroll down a bit
2. You’ll see a link for ‘associates’ on the left side of the page.
3.  Click that link and they will walk you through the whole process.
It is pretty easy and doesn’t cost a thing! :-)
And, if you are looking for creative ways to build a readership through your eBay business by adding a blog, building a mailing list, or writing and publishing an eBook… read on!
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My FIRST online Garage Sale!
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To celebrate the upcoming release of my latest Start Here Program: Membership Sites, I’m having a garage sale! You’ll hear more about the new Start Here Program for membership sites next week – but, in the mean time…
Through the weekend (until Monday night – midnight PST), you can take advantage of garage sale prices on ANY Start Here Program eCourse!!
DON’T BUY FROM THE LINKS BELOW OR YOU WON’T GET THE G-SALE PRICE!!
1. 6 month Blogging course
2. 10 Days To An eBook
3. Building Your Mailing List
4. SEO for eBay Sellers
Check out my Garage Sale Deals Here —>
Save $30 on the Blogging Course!
Save almost 50% on all the other courses!
ONLY through midnight, August 29th (THIS MONDAY!)

3 Ways to USE eBay Right NOW For Business Growth

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
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1. 3 Ways To USE eBay right now for business growth
2. Changes To Your eBay About Me Page
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Hi ~

Today we are looking at how to continue to use eBay’s About Me page to build a mailing list – even though they have removed the policy allowing you to include links to outside websites.

This strategy is extremely important if you are going to move beyond just selling on eBay to USING eBay to grow your online business.

Just as many people use Google to grow their online business, you can use eBay… it is one of the TOP visited sites so you might as well take advantage of that traffic, right?

Be sure to check out the article (lesson) below… but, before you do – here are 3 ways you can USE eBay RIGHT NOW to grow your eBay busines.

1. Getting The Most Out Of Your Listing Title
Every word in the title for your listing should be there for a reason. Many people have an idea of what they are looking for on eBay and will skip browsing through the categories… and just go straight to that search box to enter in what they want.

If you want your listing to show up when they do that search for items like you are selling – YOU MUST HAVE KEYWORDS IN YOUR TITLE!

This means that your title has to have words that people use to search for your item in your title. Sometimes this takes a little bit of thought and creativity…

but, I’ll let you in on a secret…

using a title like this: @@@@ SUPER CUTE LADYBUG COSTUME!!! @@@@

List of Costumes That Are Selling NOW

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
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1. List of Costumes That Are Selling NOW!
2. Becoming A Successful eBook Author: The K.E.Y.
3. Holiday Toy Guide PRESALE is coming
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Hi ~

Just like toys will be the big selling item in a couple of months… costumes are the big item now.

Some of you might think that the big profits come from selling NEW costumes – nothing could be further from the truth… USED costumes sell very well and have a great profit margin too!

Take a look at the following list of costumes that are selling NOW… then, if you want to learn more about selling used costumes Discover The Secrets of How to Find and Sell Halloween Costumes for High Profits with the eBay guide Sherah Taylor and I have put together for you.

Learn more about the eBook here:
http://www.auction-moms.com/hotsellingcostumes.html
BUT don’t buy it from that link or you will be paying too much!

Get it for just 20 bucks through the 10th with this special link:
https://wahmcart.com/cgi-bin/index.cgi?adminid=22&pid=7389&quickbuy=1

Whether you get the eBook bundle or not – you can still take advantage of selling used costumes one Bay… and here is a list of 5 that are selling RIGHT NOW! These aren’t hard to find guys… thrift shops and consignment stores are putting them out right now – this is a great opportunity for some fast sales!

5 used costumes that are selling NOW:

1)Item: Astronaut Suit Sz 4-6, Cap, Helmet, Boots, Backpack EUC
Link: http://tinyurl.com/28kjrl5
Item number: 260653983690
Ending Price: $51.00 with 2 days left
Starting Bid: $.99
#Bids: 13

The rest of 2010 and your eBay business

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
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1. What To Do During The Rest of 2010
2. Harnessing eBay Traffic with an eBook
2. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
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Can you believe that we are well into the second half of 2010?!

Usually when August hits I find myself looking back over the goals I set for the year to see what kind of progress I have made. I have to admit, since my car accident – and the many months of recovery – I haven’t quite been on the track I was hoping I would be on… things are just a bit slower. Maybe you can relate?

If so – be encouraged!

I am learning that it is alright to take things a little slower… that what really matters is FOCUS. It might take me 2 months longer than I had planned to get a new course written – but, what matters is that I stick to my plan and just go one step at a time until it is done. It might take me a week or two longer to get all my listings up – but, what matters is that I keep on plugging along until they are listed.

See, without focusing on what we are doing… and where we are going with our business, we really won’t get anywhere. If I focused on the fact that things were taking me so much longer than I had planned – I would probably get overwhelmed and just stop.

But, if I have a plan… and just keep moving forward on that plan, I’ll get where I want to be… eventually.

Auction Strategists: Why eBay Sellers Need An Info Product

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
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1. Start Here Program: 10 Days To An eBook
2. Why Do I Need An Information Product Anyway?
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
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Hi ~

If you have ever wanted to put together an information product – like an eBook)… but, you aren’t much of a writer… or you don’t really know how to get started… or you don’t know what people would be interested in hearing about… (need I go on?)… then, you’ll want to pay special attention…

I have found that many people understand the value of using things like a blog/website, mailing list, ezine or newsletter, ebooks, etc… as a part of their business strategy – but, they need someone to walk along side and show them HOW.

That’s what I have hoped to accomplish with the Start Here Program.

The whole point of the Start Here Program has always been to provide simple, step-by-step lessons to help you grow your business beyond just selling auctions on eBay.

Last year, we started with blogging with the 6 month course that gets your blog up and ready to generate traffic and revenue.

Earlier this year, I released the next module that was all about how to build a mailing list.

And, now we dig deep into how to actually write, format, and publish an information product (ebook, short report, etc.).

Announcing the next module for the Start Here Program…
10 Days To An eBook

Why eBay’s Mailing List Feature Isn’t A Good Idea

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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In this newsletter:
eBay’s Mailing List Feature – Not so good
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One question I get frequently as I talk about the importance of building a mailing list is:

Why can’t I use eBay’s mailing list feature?

If you didn’t know, eBay has a feature that allows store owners to manage a mailing list so you can publish a newsletter. I say ‘manage’ loosely – because if you look closely, there are some limitations that eBay puts on your newsletter that makes eBay more likely your list manager than you… are you surprised?

Before we dig too deep… let’s look at the value of having a mailing list:

1. Trust Builder: A mailing list is a tool you can use to build a relationship with your readers/audience/market. If you have a relationship with your readers and have built their trust, they are more likely to buy from you.

2. Takes Pressure Off of Selling Auctions: If your goal is to build a mailing list then you aren’t as concerned about your auctions selling. Instead, you begin to recognize that your auctions are really just a way for people to join your mailing list. Your listings become more of an advertisement than the single source of revenue for your business.

Secrets of Garage Sale Bargains – $10! Don’t Miss This!!

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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In this newsletter:
1. Discount on Sherah’s Garage Sale Book For My Readers!
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Hello ~

Yeah!
It’s here!

Earlier this week I mentioned that I was working out a deal with Sherah Taylor (previous publisher of Auction-Moms) for her excellent Garage Sale eBook.

Although there are many different ways to find inventory… It should come to no surprise that I highly recommend garage sales.

A while back I stumbled on this wonderful resource for hitting g-sales for inventory. I had no idea other people did this – thought it was my little secret… I was getting great results buying at yard sales and reselling on eBay.

BUT THEN… I read this book and everything changed!

In fact, every year I re-read it and I pick up new strategies and tips to apply to the new garage sale season. I just finished reading the latest 2010 update to Sherah’s ebook, Secrets of Garage Sale Bargains – man, it is FULL of great ideas…

Learn things like:
- Which weekend is best to catch hot moving sales
- Tips for getting a good deal even if your best offer is refused
- Why saying, “Will you take $1 for this toy?” is a no-no
- Find out the magic words to seal the deal… almost every time!
- When the best time is to hit the sales for the best deals

The ebook sells for $17.99 – but, I was able to work out a special deal with her to offer it to my readers for only $10. I don’t think you’ll be seeing it anywhere else for this price!

It’s Not About eBay Anymore!

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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In this newsletter:
1. It’s Not About eBay Anymore!
2. This Week – Sherah’s Garage Sale eBook
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Hello ~

Have you heard? A lot of people are saying that eBay is dead… again.

It just might be for some people – but, I really think it all comes down to your business strategy.

I think eBay is alive and well… read on to find out why.

Enjoy!
Jenni

PS. I’m about to close up the Start Here Blogging course for a bit. We are just about to our limit. If you are interested in learning how to set up a blog for your eBay business… and build new automated revenue streams, you’ll want to check it out. In fact, if you get in before the end of the week, I’ll knock off $5 every single month!

Learn more here:
http://www.starthereprogram.com/blogging

BUT if you want to save $30 on the course, use this special link before Friday at midnight:
https://wahmcart.com/cgi-bin/index.cgi?adminid=22&pid=5572&quickbuy=1

Here is what people are saying:
“I think overall you have taken a dificult subject and taught us how to make a blog that will be very productive for us.”

“Great course and great price.”

“The scope of the course is so comprehensive, and so clearly explained, that I really think anyone who can read and follow instructions can do it.  The course broke down the most technical and complicated processes into small easily understood steps.  There’s no way I could have done it on my own and come out with such a professional product.”

“I like that the lessons, especially the early ones, were clear and broken down step-by-step, and the flow into more complicated processes was gradual and well organized.”

Auction Strategists: Your Budget For Hitting Garage Sales

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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In this newsletter:
1. What’s Coming Up… FREE Inventory?!
2. Garage Sale For Inventory Plan
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Hello ~

Do you have a budget for your inventory?… Or, do you fly by the seat of your pants when it comes to buying items to resell? Maybe you are just scraping by right now and just buy inventory when you can… there are so many people in this boat right now due to the economy. If this is you, stay tuned – in the next newsletter I am going to show you a strategy to get used items to resell on eBay without spending a penny! Yep – you heard me right! There is an article I wrote a few years back on this topic and I will be featuring it in the next newsletter.

Enjoy!
Jenni

PS. The Summer Toy Guide is LIVE and going strong! Know what used toys are selling on eBay this summer with the Summer Toy Guide – you get 3 months with the package for just $27!

Learn more here: http://www.mytoyguide.com/summer

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Garage Sale For Inventory Plan – YOUR BUDGET
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Last week I shared with you some of the strategies I use to map out my route on a g-sale day… and today we talk about the all important budget!

Your budget will really come down to the market you are in (and of course how much you have to spend on inventory). Since I focus on selling children’s items, that is going to be the point of reference for this weeks topic of budgeting for yard sales.

Calendar of Bargains for new inventory

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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Calendar of coupons/bargains/sales
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One of the websites I frequent sent out an interesting email earlier this year. Buxr has been watching the trends for how stores and manufacturers run their sales. This calendar of savings they put together allows you to get a glimpse of what can be expected to be promoted by stores and what you might find as far as sales, coupons and rebates… If you are reselling new retail items, this is valuable information.

I put together a summary from the list… I just included items below from the list that tend to be sold on eBay. You will want to look at the whole article  HERE.

Trends for savings
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January: furniture, carpet, exercise stuff, grills, TV’s

February: tires, tools, humidifiers

March: luggage, boots, coats/winter wear

April: car accessories, fabric, vacuum cleaners and lawn mowers

May: Patio furniture, water, party supplies, camping gear, mattresses

June: hand tools

July: early markdowns for patio furniture, outgoing theater shows on Broadway sell tickets for 50% off

August: further patio furniture mark-downs, outdoor toy sales (30-75% off), swimwear, backpacks, school/office supplies

September: bikes, digital cameras, gas grills, wines

October: large appliances, winter coats, jeans

November: left over Halloween items

December: computers, loads of bundles with electronics, wedding dresses, baby products, toys, GPS

Enjoy!
Jenni

PS. I am so embarrassed that I haven’t posted since **gasp** December! That’s what happens when I focus on the back end stuff of running a business – there is really only so many hours in a day. Not to mention… continued physical therapy and doctor visits… hoping to have all that behind me soon….

Merry Christmas! A gift for you…

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Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

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Merry Christmas To You!
=====================================
=====================================

If you only have a few minutes {!firstname}…
don’t miss out on my Christmas present to you this year!

Through the end of the year, you can join my Start Here Blogging
course for only $5 a month (instead of the regular $17)…

Learn more here:
http://www.starthereprogram.com/blogging

—-> Only 5 bucks a month with THIS LINK:
http://www.jennihunt.com/merrychristmas

Merry Christmas {!firstname}!!
Jenni

***

Usually this time of year I spend a lot of time reflecting… as
well as looking forward. I don’t know about you, but I have a list
of things I want to finish up before the end of the month… just
so I can simply FOCUS when January hits.

What about you?
What are your plans for 2010, {!firstname}?

As I have talked with many eBay sellers this past year… I have
found that there are a lot of sellers out there who are
discouraged. For different reasons, they feel like eBay just isn’t
what it once was and that they missed out.

Well… they are right.

eBay isn’t what it use to be. In fact, nothing is what it use to
be. The beauty of that, however, is that this change just brings us
new opportunities!

We all have a choice to either focus on what use to be… or look
forward to what could be. I must be an optimist at heart… because
I choose to look forward and take advantage of the opportunities
available to us.

What are you going to choose?
What are you going to focus on for your business this next year?

Over Half of Americans Plan To Buy THIS!

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
=========================================
1. 7 No Cost Ways To Bring In New Bidders
2. Over 50% of Americans Plan To Buy These This Holiday Season!
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=========================================
=====================================

Happy Thanksgiving Week!!

We spent our morning hooking up a wireless printer… I know – we
are so behind the times! We actually got this printer LAST YEAR. In
fact, it was still sealed in the box this morning – but, now it is
finally up and running.

As we were pulling it out and getting it all setup with the laptop
I was blown away by how outdated the technology was. It is still a
great printer – but, it wasn’t designed to run with VISTA (and
Windows 7 just came out!)… and you have to use the CD with the
software on it to be able to set it up with a computer. Well, we
just bought one of those netbooks – and it doesn’t even have a CD
drive. Although I’m sure we can dig for a downloadable version
online… there was no mention of it in the installation
instructions.

All this got me thinking about how eBay has changed over the
years… and how technology has played it’s part in those changes.
It has provided so many ways for sellers to bring in their own
customers.

It use to be that sellers were completely reliant on eBay and it’s
own search capabilities for bidders to be able to find your
listings. Did you know that you no longer have to rely on eBays
search engine for your potential bidders to find your listings?

Auction Strategists: Getting Visitors To Click To Your About Me Page

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
1. Quick Note – What People Are Saying
2. Back To The Basics – Your About Me Page Part 2
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=========================================
=========================================

A Quick Note…

Are you looking for a step-by-step program to help you get started with a blog to create new revenue for your eBay business? Discounted Charter Memberships are almost gone over at http://www.StartHereProgram.com/blogging

Look at what Deena had to say about the Start Here Blogging program for eBayers:

“Hi, Jenni,

Thank you!

I just wanted to tell you what an AWESOME job you’re doing with the Blog lesson system.

I’m about to start Lesson 9, and I just can’t believe all the information, step-by-step instructions, knowledge, and advice you are providing.

I would have had to read a zillion books and web sites to learn about it, and still never be able to narrow it down and get it done. Just poking around other web sites leads to mass confusion and eventual inaction.

I’m looking forward to the next lessons…

Thanks again for a great program – I know you put a tremendous amount of work into it, and I hope it brings you wealth and fame!”

Deena
www.oakhillboutique.com

http://stores.shop.ebay.com/OakHillBoutique__W0QQ_armrsZ1

eBay ID: deenaodaniel

Thanks Deena!
If you want to learn more about the blogging program – check it out here:
http://www.StartHereProgram.com/blogging

***

Also – super quick…
Are you using garage sales for your eBay inventory? Whether you want to get started finding inventory this way or are a seasoned garage saler, Sherah’s ebook – Secrets To Garage Sale Bargains is must have!

Auction Strategists – Back To The Basics With Your About Me Page

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
1. Quick Note – Garage Sales For Inventory
2. Back To The Basics – Your About Me Page
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=========================================
=========================================

A Quick Note…

I just found out that Sherah over at Auction-Moms is offering her Secrets To Garage Sale Profits ebook for only 10 bucks! WhooHoo! Usually she only offers this once a year, but we got lucky. So, if you missed it in April – you get another chance.

If you shop garage sales for inventory… or are interested in learning how to do this – Sherah’s ebook is jam packed with information you need.

You can learn more here:

http://tinyurl.com/85xhq

But, don’t buy it from that page or you’ll be paying too much.
Through August 5, you can get it for only 10 bucks – but, you have to use this link to get the deal:

http://www.jennihunt.com/GarageSaleEbookSpecial/auction-moms-ebook.htm

=========================================

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Back To The Basics…

Do you have an About Me page? I sure hope so…

I’ve been spending a lot of time on eBay poking around, researching trends and I am always suprised at the number of sellers (even power sellers) that do not have an About Me page! And, most of those that do – aren’t using it to it’s full potential… talk about leaving money on the table.

If you DON’T have an About Me page, you need to pay attention.

If you DO, you need to pay attention. ;-)

Your About Me page on eBay is one of your biggest eBay assets when it comes to creating multiple revenue streams. It is one of the KEYS to USING eBay to grow your business instead of eBay using you).

More Than eBay…

I’m not the only one who thinks that there is more to building a successful eBay business than eBay itself.

Jim Cockrum over at My-Silent-Team (http://www.My-Silent-Team.com) mentioned in his last newsletter that eBay is no longer enough… and I couldn’t agree more! Not only are other options for selling items becoming more and more popular for BUYERS (craigslist, amazon, and more)… but, if you really want to grow your business – you have to view eBay as a TOOL for your business not the actual business itself.

Sure, you can sell on eBay and make some money with the items you are selling — and many are doing quite well with this model still; however, many sellers are frustrated with the control eBay has over them as a seller and are looking to grow beyond just selling. Plus – it is always a good idea to NOT have all your eggs in one basket.

This is no surprise – I’ve been talking about this for a long time. In fact, my Start Here Program is designed to help you move beyond eBay and into gaining more CONTROL over your business. (You can learn more about the Start Here Program here – as of this writing, there are still a few Charter memberships available.)

I also cannot say enough about Jim Cockrum and the information he provides. Almost 7 years ago I stumbled on his Silent Sales Machine ebook and it completely changed the way I view my eBay business… I have never looked back! You can sign up for Jim’s free newsletter HERE – top right corner. You can also look at his archive… including his take on eBay not being enough anymore.

Auction Strategists: A MUST HAVE Folder On Your Computer

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
1. The Simple Secret – The Folder You Need On Your Computer
3. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=========================================
=========================================

The Simple Secret – The Folder You MUST Have On Your Hard Drive

I have had more people email me this past week asking what they should be focusing on in their eBay business right now.

“Help! I don’t know where to start – I want to automate my business, start building a mailing list, get a blog going, and better build my inventory… But, there is so much good information out there I don’t know where to start!”

Sound familiar?

My guess is that every small business owner has this question at one point or another… and the answer is very simple.

It is so simple that it is often overlooked and that is why I’m calling it the “Simple Secret”.

Here are a couple tips:

1. Find a mentor or two

There are a lot of experts out there willing to help and share what they have learned or know. Find a few that you trust and stick with them! This will help keep you from ‘being tossed by the wind’ – trying to learn everything from everyone.

2. Create An Education FOlder On Your Hard Drive

This is my most precious folder on my computer! There are a handful of people that I consider mentors… and anything and everything they send me – I know, without a doubt, it is valuable and something I want to read and soak in.

Auction Strategists: Add Some FIREWORKS To Your Auctions

=========================================

Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt

www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:

=========================================

1. Adding FIREWORKS to your eBay business

2. Heads Up: Growing Your Niche

3. Heads Up: What About Information Products?

4. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status

=====================================

=====================================

Hi ~

As 4th of July is coming… and in Oregon, that means fireworks stands are popping up everywhere. Yesterday, I had the privilege of taking just my 4 year old to the grocery store with me for a few things… the parking lot had the same fireworks stand that has been there year after year. In fact, I’m sure it is run by the same people. It is always in the same spot of the parking lot… the only change is that they are in a big white tent instead of a wooden shed.

Usually, the flags and bright colors are enough to get the attention of my children, but this time — it was something else.

This year, there was another fireworks tent on the other side of the parking lot. It was white with flags all over it – just like the other one that is always there… only this one had 5 (yes FIVE) huge inflatable slides and bouncy houses for kids to play in. It took up most of the parking lot!

I didn’t even drive on the side of the parking lot that had the inflatable slides… in fact, we drove right by the tent that has been there year after year selling fireworks… But, do you think my 4 year old even saw this tent?

Nope.

He was completely focused on the inflatables.

Auction Strategists: Free Blogging Report

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
=========================================
1. Quick News: Custom Auction Template $7 Through Friday
2. Free Report: 10 Blogging Questions
4. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=====================================

It’s almost been a week!
My Custom Auction Template is more than 1/2 price through THIS Friday, June 19, 2009.

The slower months of summer are a great time to make sure your listings are top notch. Years ago I updated my template to a custom template that I made and my average sales instantly DOUBLED!

My template is usually $14.95 – but, I’m offering it for $7 through Friday ONLY.

You can learn more here:
http://huntedtreasure.com/Custom_Auction_Template.html
BUT – to get it for $7 you must use this link ONLY given to my readers:
http://tinyurl.com/auctiontemplate

** Note: My Custom Auction Template requires use with the Seller Sourcebook (http://www.jennihunt.com/recommends/ssb.htm)

=====================================

Hi ~

I am very excited to be coming out of a great, big, huge dry spell… have you ever been there? You know where you want to go… what you want to accomplish… heck, I even knew what I needed to get done – I just couldn’t focus long enough to do it.

I have been working on this new blogging program for you guys (I know, I’ve been talking about it for a long time) – but, even though I had most of the outline finished… I was really struggling with filling it all in. I knew the content I wanted to put in there — just didn’t have the focus or discipline… or something…

Auction Strategists: 3 Ways To Build Your Biz This Week

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
=========================================
1. 3 Ways To Build Your Biz This Week
2. Heads Up: Resource: Affiliate and Niche Blogging
3. Heads Up: Discover Your Niche?
4. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=====================================

Check It Out!

The slower months of summer are a great time to make sure your
listings are top notch. Years ago I updated my template to a custom
template that I made and my average sales instantly DOUBLED!

My template is usually $14.95 – but, I’m offering it for $7 for one
week.

You can learn more here:
http://huntedtreasure.com/Custom_Auction_Template.html
BUT – to get it for $7 you must use this link ONLY given to my
readers:
http://tinyurl.com/auctiontemplate

** Note: My Custom Auction Template requires use with the Seller
Sourcebook (http://www.jennihunt.com/recommends/ssb.htm)

=====================================

Hi ~

Looking for ways to give your business a little kick this week?
I’ll give you three…

1. Write
2. Get Involved
3. Improve Your Listings

1. Write

Write a short article (500 words) that talks about an aspect of
what you are selling on eBay and submit it to article directories
for others to publish on their websites and blogs.

How does this give your eBay business a kick?

I love to use what Jimmy D. Brown coined as the ‘useful, but
complete’ approach when using freebies of any kind (and articles
are free tid-bits of information). What he means by that is simply
this: You provide the reader with “useful” information (something
they find of value and are able to actually apply) but make certain
that it is ‘incomplete’ in that they can better use the information
by making a purchase from you.

Auction Strategists: Applying Internet Marketing To EBay

=========================================
Auction Strategists Newsletter

Brought to you by Jenni Hunt
www.jennihunt.com

In this newsletter:
=========================================
1. How To Apply Internet Marketing Strategies To Your eBay Business
2. Heads Up: John Cow, Blogging and Business
3. Heads Up: Summer Toy Guide Only Available Until Friday!
4. How to subscribe or Change your subscription status
=========================================
=====================================

If you run any kind of business… whether you like it or not, you are somehow involved in marketing. In fact, even if you don’t realize it, you are marketing your business. It happens whether you have a ‘formal’ plan or not… It happens when you tell other people what you do – either by word of mouth, through email, flyers on bulletin boards… or however else you communicate your business services/products to potential customers.

Here is the thing…
As an eBay seller, you have a choice.

You can A. Let eBay do all the marketing for you (and your competition)…
You can B. Let eBay affiliate marketers do your marketing (and your competition)…
Or,
You can C. Take the reigns into your own hands and do your own marketing.

What’s cool about Option C is that it is kind of an ‘all of the above’ sort of thing. Not only will you benefit from your own marketing efforts – you will continue to benefit from eBay and other affiliate marketers as well.

You must have a plan if you are going to be marketing your online business though… Before we get into how to develop a plan, I want to be very clear that marketing is not the same as advertising. Advertising can be a piece of your marketing plan; however, placing ads on various websites is not in itself a marketing plan.