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Selling tips

Writing listings that sell: photography and description tips

A good listing does the selling for you. Learn how to light a photograph, write an honest description and answer the questions buyers always ask.

The difference between a listing that sits unsold for weeks and one that sells in a day is rarely the price. More often it is the photographs and the description. Both are entirely within your control, and neither needs special equipment.

Light it well

Natural daylight near a window flatters almost anything. Photograph clothes on a hanger or a plain background rather than crumpled on the floor, and fill the frame so the item is easy to see. A clean, honest photo builds trust faster than any amount of clever wording.

Describe it honestly

Buyers reward honesty. Note the brand, size, colour and material, and be upfront about any flaws — a small mark described in advance is far better than a disappointed buyer later. Include measurements, because sizing varies wildly between makers and decades.

Every strong listing tends to answer these questions before they are asked:

  • What is it, and what is it made of?
  • What size is it, in both label size and actual measurements?
  • What condition is it in, flaws and all?
  • How will it be posted, and roughly what will that cost?

Once your listing is live, you can manage messages and offers from your Preloved account.

Harriet Cole

Harriet has spent fifteen years hunting through charity shops, car boots and estate sales. She writes about vintage fashion, spotting quality and buying preloved without the guesswork.

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