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Friday, October 30, 2026Oct 30

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Phillips: Web auction setup needs care to set up

Many of us already are readying our returns and praying Uncle Sam doesn’t march us to the bank to empty our account to pay more taxes. If you’re like me, just to be on the safe side, I’m gathering merchandise from around my home to make a few bucks.

While I’ve used the behemoth selling site e-Bay, fees sometime outweigh any proceeds or time spent trying to sell items.

When I came across a Woman’s Day article recently that offers alternatives, I figured my reader buddies could use a selling boost. (Let’s think more about actually buying at online auctions after April 15.) A couple of tidbits first, though:

1. Be absolutely certain you understand the fee schedule and, as important, trust the person (as much as you can depend on a complete stranger who lives on the other side of the country) to whom you’re selling. Read the buyer’s feedback ratings carefully and stay away from those whose ratings aren’t waaay up there.

Frankly, I’m leery about selling or buying from someone outside the U.S., too.