Burgoon Home Haven LLC

Tag: side hustle

  • 10 Common eBay Reselling Mistakes That Cost Beginners Money (And How to Avoid Them)

    10 Common eBay Reselling Mistakes That Cost Beginners Money (And How to Avoid Them)

    Starting EBay

    Starting an eBay business is exciting. Whether you’re cleaning out your home, flipping thrift store finds, or building a full-time resale business, there’s incredible opportunity.

    I’ve been selling on eBay for almost 2 years while working full-time and raising a family, and I’ve learned that success isn’t just about finding great products—it’s about avoiding the costly mistakes that many new sellers make.

    If you’re just getting started, these ten tips can help you save money, earn better feedback, and grow your business faster.

    1. Pricing Without Doing Research

    One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is pricing items based on what they hope they’re worth instead of what buyers are actually paying.

    Before listing an item:

    • Search for the item on eBay.
    • Filter by Sold Items.
    • Compare condition and shipping costs.
    • Look at the average selling price.

    A sold listing tells you far more than an active listing.

    Pro Tip: Sometimes pricing just a few dollars lower than similar listings can help your item sell much faster.

    2. Using Poor Quality Photos

    Your photos are your storefront.

    Avoid:

    • Dark lighting
    • Blurry images
    • Cluttered backgrounds
    • Taking only one picture

    Instead:

    • Use natural light whenever possible.
    • Photograph from multiple angles.
    • Include close-ups of labels.
    • Show any flaws honestly.
    • Use a clean white background when appropriate.

    Great photos build buyer confidence.

    3. Ignoring Item Flaws

    Trying to hide imperfections usually results in:

    • Returns
    • Negative feedback
    • Lost customers

    Instead, photograph and describe every flaw.

    Examples include:

    • Small stains
    • Scratches
    • Chips
    • Missing buttons
    • Loose stitching

    Honesty builds trust.

    4. Charging Too Much (or Too Little) for Shipping

    Shipping mistakes can quickly eat into your profits.

    Many new sellers:

    • Underestimate package weight
    • Choose the wrong shipping service
    • Forget about packing supplies

    Invest in:

    • A shipping scale
    • Measuring tape
    • Quality boxes and mailers

    Accurate shipping keeps your profits where they belong.

    5. Forgetting to Measure Clothing

    One return can wipe out the profit from several sales.

    Include measurements such as:

    • Chest
    • Waist
    • Inseam
    • Sleeve length
    • Overall length

    Measurements help buyers purchase with confidence.

    6. Listing Inconsistently

    The eBay algorithm rewards active sellers.

    Instead of listing 40 items one weekend and nothing for two weeks, try:

    • 3–5 listings per day
    • Or 20–30 listings each week

    Consistency often leads to more consistent sales.

    7. Buying Everything You See

    Just because something is cheap doesn’t mean it’s profitable.

    Before buying inventory, ask yourself:

    • Is there demand?
    • What is the sell-through rate?
    • How long will it take to sell?
    • What profit will I actually make after fees and shipping?

    Successful resellers buy intentionally—not emotionally.

    8. Not Understanding eBay Fees

    Many beginners only think about what an item sells for.

    Remember to account for:

    • eBay selling fees
    • Promoted listing fees
    • Shipping costs
    • Packing materials
    • Sales tax (handled by eBay for buyers but still understand how it affects totals)

    Knowing your true profit helps you make smarter buying decisions.

    9. Waiting Too Long to Ship

    Fast shipping leads to:

    • Better feedback
    • Happier customers
    • Repeat buyers

    Try to ship within one business day whenever possible.

    Packaging items carefully also reduces damage claims and returns.

    10. Giving Up Too Soon

    Every reseller has slow weeks.

    That’s normal.

    Instead of quitting:

    • 7 Reseller Tips That Save Me Time Every Week
    • How to Photograph Products That Sell Faster on eBay
    • My Favorite Shipping Supplies for Online Sellers
    • How I Balance a Full-Time Job and a Reselling Business
    • Keep listing.
    • Learn from sold listings.
    • Improve your photos.
    • Organize your inventory.
    • Continue learning.

    Success comes from consistency, not perfection.

    Final Thoughts

    Reselling is one of the most flexible businesses you can start, but every successful seller has learned through trial and error.

    By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll save money, reduce stress, and build a business that can grow over time.

    Whether you’re selling part-time or hoping to turn reselling into a full-time income, remember that every listing is an opportunity to learn and improve.

    Happy selling!

    💬 What About You?

    What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned while selling on eBay?

    Leave a comment below—I love hearing from fellow resellers!


  • 7 Reseller Tips That Save Me Time Every Week

    7 Reseller Tips That Save Me Time Every Week

    If you’re juggling a full-time job, family responsibilities, and a resale business, every minute counts. These are some simple systems I use to keep Burgoon Home Haven running without feeling completely overwhelmed.

    1. Keep a Running Sourcing List

    Instead of trying to remember everything, I keep a list on my phone of items and brands I’m actively looking for. When I stop at a thrift store, Dollar General, or clearance aisle, I already know what to hunt for.

    Pro Tip:

    Focus on categories you already understand. It’s easier to spot profitable items when you’re familiar with them.

    2. Process Inventory Immediately

    Nothing creates clutter faster than piles of unlisted inventory.

    My goal is simple:

    • Buy it
    • Photograph it
    • List it
    • Store it

    The sooner it’s listed, the sooner it can sell.

    3. Use Bins and Labels

    Organization doesn’t have to be fancy.

    I use totes and labeled storage bins to separate:

    • Home décor
    • Clothing
    • New inventory
    • Shipping supplies
    • Seasonal items

    When something sells, I know exactly where to find it.

    4. Batch Similar Tasks Together

    Switching between tasks wastes time.

    Instead, dedicate blocks of time for:

    • Photographing
    • Listing
    • Shipping
    • Researching

    Even one focused hour can make a huge difference.

    5. Don’t Chase Every Trend

    Not every hot item is worth buying.

    I look for products that:

    • Have consistent demand
    • Fit my budget
    • Meet my profit goals

    Slow and steady often beats chasing the latest craze.

    6. Keep Shipping Supplies Ready

    Having supplies organized saves a surprising amount of time.

    I keep:

    • Bubble mailers
    • Boxes
    • Tape
    • Labels
    • Thank-you cards

    all in one area so orders can be packed quickly.

    7. Progress Beats Perfection

    Some weeks I list 50 items.
    Some weeks I only list 5.

    The important thing is staying consistent. Small actions add up over time and keep your business moving forward.

    Final Thoughts

    Running a resale business while working full-time isn’t always easy, but having simple systems in place can reduce stress and help you stay organized. Find what works for you, stay consistent, and remember that every listing is one step closer to your goals.

    What reseller tip has saved you the most time? I’d love to hear it in the comments!

    Shop My Reseller Essentials Here

    Shipping Scale
    Poly Mailers Variety Pack
    Bubble Wrap Roll
    4×6 Thermal Shipping Labels
    Storage Bins
    Thermal Label Printer
    Ring Light for Product Photo
    Clothing Steamer
  • How I Source Inventory While Working Full-Time

    How I Source Inventory While Working Full-Time

    Running a resale business while working a full-time job isn’t always easy, but it is possible. One of the questions I get asked most often is:

    “How do you find inventory when you’re already working all week?”

    The truth is, I don’t spend hours every day shopping for products. Over time, I’ve learned how to make the most of the time I have available and focus on sourcing opportunities that fit my schedule.

    Start With What You Already Have

    One of the biggest mistakes new resellers make is assuming they need to buy hundreds of dollars worth of inventory before they can start.

    Many of us already have items around our homes that are no longer being used. Clothing, home décor, kitchen gadgets, collectibles, books, tools, toys, and seasonal items can all be great places to start.

    Selling items you already own allows you to learn the process while generating cash that can be reinvested into future inventory.

    Look for Small Opportunities Everywhere

    I don’t rely on just one sourcing method.

    Some of my favorite places to find inventory include:

    • Local clearance sections
    • Dollar General markdowns
    • Discount stores
    • Auctions
    • Yard sales
    • Thrift stores
    • Wholesale suppliers
    • Online liquidation opportunities

    Not every trip results in a cart full of products, and that’s okay. Sometimes one good item can be more profitable than twenty mediocre ones.

    Use Your Schedule Wisely

    As someone balancing work, family, and business responsibilities, I’ve learned that consistency matters more than having huge blocks of free time.

    Instead of waiting for an entire day to source inventory, I take advantage of smaller opportunities:

    • Stopping at a store after work
    • Checking clearance sections while running errands
    • Browsing online auctions during breaks
    • Reviewing supplier inventory in the evenings

    These small actions add up over time.

    Focus on Profit, Not Just Products

    It’s easy to get excited when you find a great deal, but not every deal is worth buying.

    Before purchasing inventory, I try to consider:

    • Current market demand
    • Selling price
    • Shipping costs
    • Competition
    • Potential profit

    A product that’s cheap isn’t necessarily a good buy if it doesn’t sell.

    Reinvest Your Earnings

    One of the best lessons I’ve learned is to let the business help fund its own growth.

    When items sell, I reinvest a portion of those profits back into inventory. This allows the business to expand without constantly pulling money from our household budget.

    Over time, those small reinvestments can create significant growth.

    Be Patient

    Success in reselling rarely happens overnight.

    There are weeks when sales are strong and weeks when things feel slower than expected. The key is continuing to list, source, learn, and improve.

    Every listing is another opportunity for a sale.

    Every sourcing trip is another opportunity to find profitable inventory.

    Every day of consistent effort moves the business forward.

    Final Thoughts

    Building a resale business while working full-time takes commitment, patience, and flexibility. You don’t need unlimited time or a huge budget to get started.

    Start where you are.

    Use the time you have.

    Learn as you go.

    That’s exactly how Burgoon Home Haven continues to grow, one listing, one sourcing trip, and one sale at a time.

    How do you source your inventory? I’d love to hear your favorite places to find great deals in the comments below!

    Shop My Reseller Essentials Here

    Shipping Scale
    Poly Mailers Variety Pack
    Bubble Wrap Roll
    4×6 Thermal Shipping Labels
    Storage Bins
    Thermal Label Printer
    Ring Light for Product Photo
    Clothing Steamer
  • What Sold This Week at Burgoon Home Haven

    What Sold This Week at Burgoon Home Haven

    Real Sales • Real Strategy • Real Life Reselling

    This week was a great mix of home décor and fashion accessories, and I love seeing how different types of inventory continue to move when priced and presented right!

    Here’s a breakdown of what sold—and a few takeaways you can use in your own reselling journey 👇

    🌿 Set of 2 Artificial Succulent Plants

    Sold for: $14.99 + shipping
    Sale Type: Promoted Listing

    These little succulents are proof that simple home décor sells consistently. They’re lightweight, easy to ship, and appeal to a wide audience—from office décor to dorm rooms.

    👉 Reseller Tip:
    Keep an eye out for neutral, everyday décor pieces. They may not bring huge profit individually, but they sell fast and steady, especially when promoted.

    My personal Picture. I want a pair of these amazing glasses!

    DAX Eyewear Aviator Sunglasses (Pink/Purple Lens)

    Sold for: $36.99 + shipping
    Sale Type: Promoted Listing

    Now THIS is the kind of flip we love 🙌
    Stylish, trendy, and eye-catching—these aviators had everything going for them.

    Bright mirrored lenses + classic black frame = high click-through appeal.

    👉 Reseller Tip:
    Items that pop visually (like bold sunglasses) perform better in search AND when scrolling. Your main photo matters more than anything—this is a great example of that.

    Weekly Takeaways

    ✔️ Promoted listings are still doing their job
    Both of these sales came through promotions—visibility matters, especially in competitive categories.

    ✔️ Mix your inventory
    Having both:

    • Low-cost, steady sellers (like décor)
    • Higher-margin items (like sunglasses)

    …keeps your store balanced and cash flowing.

    ✔️ Photos = clicks = sales
    Clean backgrounds + good lighting helped these items stand out.

    💡 Final Thoughts

    This week is a reminder that you don’t need massive, expensive inventory to stay consistent.
    It’s about:

    • Smart sourcing
    • Clean listings
    • And staying active

    I’m continuing to test pricing, promotion rates, and bundles—so stay tuned for next week’s breakdown!

    👉 Want to shop what’s currently available?
    Check out my eBay store:
    🔗 My Store Link

    Shop My Reseller Essentials Here

    Shipping Scale
    Poly Mailers Variety Pack
    Bubble Wrap Roll
    4×6 Thermal Shipping Labels
    Storage Bins
    Thermal Label Printer
    Ring Light for Product Photo
    Clothing Steamer
  • WHAT SOLD THIS WEEK | Burgoon Home Haven

    WHAT SOLD THIS WEEK | Burgoon Home Haven

    This week was all about steady, everyday flips that keep the business moving .

    Brand New

    Hope & Harlow Twist Front Blouse (XL)

    ✨ Sold for: $17.99
    Category: Women’s Business Casual

    Classic striped blouses are always a solid pickup. This one had that cute twist-front detail that makes it stand out just enough to catch a buyer’s eye.

    💡 Reseller Tip:
    Grab neutral, wearable pieces — they may not be flashy, but they sell consistently year-round.

    Always in Demand

    Gloria Vanderbilt Amanda Jeans (Size 12)

    ✨ Sold for: $15.99
    Category: Women’s Denim

    This is one of those brands I will always grab when the price is right. Comfortable, reliable, and always in demand.

    💡 Reseller Tip:
    Don’t overlook “everyday brands” — they’re bread-and-butter sales that keep cash flow steady.

    Thrift Store Flip

    Bless This Home Wood Wall Sign

    ✨ Sold for: $14.99 (with coupon)
    Category: Farmhouse Home Decor

    Simple, meaningful decor sells. Faith-based and farmhouse pieces continue to do really well in my store.

    💡 Reseller Tip:
    Items that connect emotionally (faith, family, home) often sell faster than trendy decor.

    REAL TALK

    Not every flip needs to be huge to matter. These smaller, consistent sales are what build a reliable income over time.

    FOLLOW ALONG

    ✔️ What sold updates
    ✔️ Reseller tips
    ✔️ Thrift finds & flips

    From our home to yours