How to Make Money Reselling Second-Hand Items: A Beginner’s Guide

Second-hand reselling has exploded in recent years, and for good reason. With low startup costs, flexible hours, and endless sourcing opportunities, reselling used items can be a profitable side hustle—or even a full-time business.

If you’re wondering how to make money as a second-hand reseller, the secret comes down to one thing: where you get your inventory. Buy low, sell smart, and the profit follows.

Below are some of the best places to source second-hand items for reselling, plus tips on how to turn them into cash.

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1. Store Closures and Liquidation Sales

One of the most overlooked gold mines for resellers is store closures. When retail stores shut down, they often liquidate brand-new or lightly used inventory at massive discounts.

Why this works:

• Prices are often 50–90% off retail

• Items are usually new with tags

• Brand recognition helps items sell faster online

What to look for:

• Clothing, shoes, handbags

• Home goods and décor

• Electronics and accessories

Pro tip: Follow local news, shopping centers, and liquidation companies to hear about closures early.

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2. Major Discount and Clearance Sales

Big retailers regularly mark items down to clear shelves. Resellers who know when and where to shop can turn clearance racks into serious profit.

Best places to check:

• Big-box stores (Target, Walmart, Costco)

• Outlet malls

• End-of-season clearance events

Focus on items with strong resale demand like branded clothing, discontinued products, or limited-edition items.

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3. Auctions and Estate Sales

Auctions are a classic sourcing method for a reason. Estate sales, storage unit auctions, and online auction platforms can offer valuable items at a fraction of their resale value.

What sells well from auctions:

• Vintage and antique items

• Collectibles

• Jewelry and watches

• Tools and electronics

Do your research beforehand so you know resale values and don’t overbid.

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4. Family, Friends, and Word of Mouth

This is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to source inventory—especially when you’re just starting out.

Let people know you’re reselling. Many are happy to:

• Give items away for free

• Sell in bulk for cheap

• Let you sell items on consignment

Closets, garages, and storage rooms are full of unused items just waiting to be flipped for profit.

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5. Thrift Stores and Charity Shops

No list of second-hand reselling sources would be complete without thrift stores.

Why thrift stores are ideal:

• Constantly changing inventory

• Low prices

• High profit potential

Visit often, learn which brands sell best online, and don’t be afraid to dig. Many resellers find their highest margins here.

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6. Online Marketplaces and Local Listings

Online platforms can also be sourcing tools, not just selling platforms.

Check places like:

• Facebook Marketplace

• Craigslist

• Buy Nothing groups

Look for bulk listings, people moving, or sellers who want items gone quickly. With smart pricing and better presentation, you can resell the same item for more.

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Final Tips for Making Money Reselling Second-Hand Items

• Research sold listings before buying

• Start small and reinvest profits

• Track costs and profits

• Focus on quality over quantity

• Be consistent—reselling rewards patience

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Is Second-Hand Reselling Worth It?

Absolutely. With the right sourcing strategy and a willingness to learn, a second-hand reselling business can be a reliable way to make money. Whether you’re flipping items as a side hustle or building a full-time income, success starts with knowing where to find inventory that sells.