How to Make Extra Money Selling Old Books, CDs, DVDs, and Games

How to Make Extra Money Selling Old Books, CDs, DVDs, and Games

If you have shelves full of books, stacks of old DVDs, or a collection of video games and CDs gathering dust, you could be sitting on a goldmine. While the shift to digital media has reduced the demand for physical copies, there’s still a thriving market for secondhand entertainment. Here’s how you can declutter your home and make extra money selling your old books, CDs, DVDs, and games.

1. Evaluate Your Collection

Before selling, assess what you have. Look for items in good condition, as scratched discs, missing cases, or damaged books may not fetch much money. Some categories are more valuable than others:

• Books: Rare editions, academic textbooks, or popular series often sell well.

• CDs: Vintage or out-of-print albums may attract collectors.

• DVDs and Blu-rays: Box sets, classic films, or special editions can be in demand.

• Video Games: Retro games, limited editions, or games for in-demand consoles (like the Nintendo Switch or PlayStation 5) can fetch high prices.

2. Research the Value of Your Items

Not all media are equally valuable. Use these tools to determine market value:

• Books: Search for your book on platforms like eBay, Amazon, or AbeBooks to gauge its worth.

• CDs/DVDs/Games: Use price-comparison sites like Decluttr, Bonavendi, or PriceCharting to find resale values.

• Special Editions: Look for collector-specific forums or marketplaces for rare or unique items.

3. Choose Your Selling Platform

Depending on what you’re selling, there are several platforms to consider:

Online Marketplaces

• Amazon: Great for books, especially textbooks. Register as a seller and list your items.

• eBay: Ideal for rare or high-value items like collector’s editions. Auctions or Buy It Now options let you set your selling strategy.

• Facebook Marketplace: Useful for local sales and avoiding shipping costs.

Specialized Platforms

• Decluttr: A quick and hassle-free option for selling in bulk. You scan barcodes to get instant quotes and ship items for free.

• Ziffit: Similar to Decluttr, it focuses on books, CDs, DVDs, and games.

• BookScouter: Helps you find the best price for books across multiple buyback vendors.

• GameStop: Offers store credit or cash for video games, though payouts are often lower than online sales.

Local Options

• Used Bookstores or Gaming Shops: Many local shops buy books, games, and DVDs outright or on consignment.

• Flea Markets and Garage Sales: If you have a large collection, selling locally can be quick and efficient.

4. Prepare Your Items for Sale

Condition matters. Clean your items to increase their appeal:

• Books: Remove dust, tape, or stickers. Flatten folded pages.

• CDs/DVDs: Check for scratches and clean the discs gently.

• Games: Ensure discs or cartridges are functional, and include manuals and cases when possible.

5. Set Competitive Prices

Pricing your items competitively increases the chances of a sale:

• Research similar listings on your chosen platform.

• Offer bundle discounts for multiple purchases.

• For rare items, price higher but allow for negotiation.

6. Ship or Deliver Safely

When selling online, proper shipping is crucial:

• Use padded envelopes for discs and sturdy boxes for books.

• Add tracking to ensure delivery and prevent disputes.

• Factor in shipping costs when setting prices or offer free shipping for a competitive edge.

7. Explore Creative Selling Strategies

To boost sales:

• Create themed bundles (e.g., “90s Movie Collection” or “Classic Sci-Fi Books”).

• Market rare or collectible items on social media.

• Use hashtags like #UsedBooksForSale or #RetroGames to attract niche buyers.

8. Be Patient and Persistent

Some items may sell quickly, while others take time. Regularly update your listings, respond promptly to inquiries, and stay flexible with pricing.

Bonus Tips

• Tax Deductions: If you donate unsold items to charity, keep a record for potential tax write-offs.

• Seasonal Sales: Back-to-school season is ideal for textbooks, while holiday periods work well for games and movies.

Selling old books, CDs, DVDs, and games is not just about making money—it’s also an opportunity to declutter and give your beloved items a second life. With the right platforms and strategies, you can turn your forgotten collection into a source of extra income while helping others enjoy the stories, music, and entertainment you once loved.

Good luck!