Building a Reselling Business: 30 Best Items to Flip

Searching for profitable items to resell? Flipping can be a highly rewarding business with the possibility of generating substantial earnings if executed properly. Yet, identifying the ideal items to flip can be difficult. 

In this article, we present a list of the top 30 profitable reselling items, spanning various categories such as antiques, limited-edition sneakers, and wedding gowns. 

Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or an experienced flipper, these items can serve as an excellent foundation for your flipping enterprise. 

What Is Flipping?

Flipping is the practice of buying items, such as real estate, cars, or collectibles, at a low price to resell for profit quickly. To find undervalued items, flippers monitor online marketplaces, attend sales events, or purchase from wholesalers. 

They then resell on platforms like eBay or Amazon. Skilled flippers can make lucrative profits, but it can be risky as there’s no guarantee that the items will sell at the desired price. Regardless, as a growing business venture, more and more people are seeking to pursue this career to increase their profit margins.  

30 Best Items to Flip for Profit

If you’re interested in trying your hand at flipping, it can be helpful to know which items are most profitable. There is a wide range of products that can be flipped, and some are more lucrative than others. 

In the following section, we’ll introduce you to 30 of the best items to flip for profit, from household goods to clothing to electronics. Whether you are a seasoned flipper or just starting, this list can serve as a helpful guide to figuring out what each item entails and how to get started.

Antiques:

• Antiques are valuable collectible items due to their age, rarity, or historical significance.
• Get started by educating yourself on the market and materials used, source items from estate sales or auctions, and network with dealers and collectors.

Furniture:

• Furniture refers to movable objects designed for human activities, such as seating and storage.
• To start flipping furniture, learn how to identify quality pieces, source from thrift shops or online marketplaces, refurbish or restore, and sell on online platforms or at festivals.

Concert T-Shirts:

• Concert t-shirts are shirts sold at concerts or music festivals as souvenirs.
• Identify popular bands or artists, look for vintage or rare t-shirts at thrift shops or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and authenticity, and sell online or at music-related events.

Vintage Clothing:

• Vintage clothing refers to clothing from a previous era that is considered fashionable and collectible.
• To get started, research popular eras and styles, such as the 1960s mod or the 1990s grunge look. Pay attention to brands that were popular during those eras, such as Levi’s, Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein. Next, source items from thrift stores, vintage shops, and online marketplaces like Etsy or Poshmark.

Limited Sneakers:

• Limited sneakers are sneakers with a limited production run and are high in demand among sneaker enthusiasts and collectors.
• To get started with flipping limited sneakers, research popular brands and models, such as Nike, Adidas, or Jordan, and stay up to date on upcoming releases. Follow sneaker blogs and social media accounts to stay informed, and try to purchase limited editions directly from retailers or through online raffles.

Wedding Dresses:

• Wedding dresses are dresses worn by brides on their wedding day and can be highly sought after for their unique designs and sentimental value.
• To start flipping wedding dresses, learn about popular designers and styles, source from bridal shops or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and authenticity, and sell on online platforms or at bridal shows.

Cufflinks:

• Cufflinks are decorative fasteners for men’s shirts that are typically worn for formal occasions.
• Start by researching popular styles and materials, as well as the brands and designers that are highly sought after. Look for cufflinks in thrift shops, estate sales, and online marketplaces like eBay or Etsy, and make sure to verify their authenticity and condition before reselling.

Watches:

• Watches are timepieces worn on the wrist or pocket and are highly collectible and valuable items.
• To get started with flipping watches, familiarize yourself with popular watch brands and models, such as Rolex, Omega, or Seiko, and learn about the various types and styles of watches, such as dress watches, chronographs, and divers. Look for watches in estate sales, pawn shops, and online marketplaces like eBay or Chrono24, and pay attention to details like the watch’s movement, dial, and case condition.

Collectible Jewelry:

• Collectible jewelry includes pieces that are unique, rare, or highly valuable.
• To start flipping collectible jewelry, research popular brands and materials, such as gold, silver, or precious stones, and learn about the various styles and eras of jewelry, such as Art Deco or Victorian. Look for jewelry in estate sales, auctions, and online marketplaces like eBay or Ruby Lane, and pay attention to details like the quality of the craftsmanship, the clarity and color of the stones, and any historical or cultural significance.

Book Sets:

• Book sets are collections of books that are highly sought after by collectors and can command high prices.
• To start flipping book sets, learn about popular authors and genres, source from estate sales or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and authenticity, and price competitively.

Musical Instruments:

• Musical instruments are tools used to create music and can be highly collectible and valuable.
• To start flipping musical instruments, you should know what to look for, listen for, and be able to gauge the quality of the instrument based on playability and branding. 

Photography Gear:

• Photography gear includes cameras, lenses, and accessories used for photography and can be highly collectible and valuable.
• To get started with flipping photography gear, research popular brands and models, such as Canon, Nikon, or Sony, and learn about the various types and uses of gear, such as lenses, cameras, and lighting equipment. Look for gear in camera stores, pawn shops, and online marketplaces like B&H Photo or Adorama, and pay attention to details like the condition of the equipment, the age and usage, and any unique features or accessories.

Baby and Kid Gear:

• Baby and kid gear includes clothing, toys, and accessories for children and can be highly sought after for their uniqueness or sentimental value.
• To start flipping baby and kid gear, learn about popular brands and styles, source from thrift stores or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and authenticity, and price competitively.

Rugs:

• Rugs are floor coverings made from various materials, including wool, silk, and synthetic fibers.
• To start flipping rugs, learn about popular materials and styles, source from estate sales or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and authenticity, and price competitively.

Home Appliances:

• Home appliances are electrical or mechanical machines used for household chores and tasks.
• To start flipping home appliances, learn about popular brands and models, source from retail stores or online marketplaces, evaluate condition and functionality, and price competitively.

Scrap Metal:

• Scrap metal is a valuable resource that can be obtained from various sources, including construction sites, junkyards, and manufacturing facilities.
• To start flipping scrap metal, learn about the types of metals and their market value, source from reputable dealers or recycling centers, and sell to scrap yards or manufacturers.

Vintage Sportswear

• Vintage sportswear includes athletic apparel and footwear from past eras that are considered collectible and fashionable.
• To start flipping vintage sportswear, learn about popular brands and styles like Champion, Nike, and Adidas, source from thrift stores or online marketplaces like Depop or eBay, evaluate condition and authenticity by checking for tags and logos, and price competitively based on rarity and demand.

Sports Memorabilia

• Sports memorabilia includes collectible items related to sports teams and athletes, such as autographed items, trading cards, and game-worn jerseys.
• To start flipping sports memorabilia, learn about popular teams and athletes like Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant, source from reputable dealers or auctions like Heritage Auctions or Goldin Auctions, evaluate condition and authenticity by checking for certificates of authenticity and signatures, and price competitively based on rarity and demand.

Sports and Exercise Equipment

• Sports and exercise equipment include gear and apparel used for athletic and fitness activities.
• To start flipping sports and exercise equipment, learn about popular brands and styles like Nike or Under Armour, source from retail stores or online marketplaces like Amazon or Dick’s Sporting Goods, evaluate condition and functionality by testing equipment or clothing, and price competitively based on age and demand.

Power Tools

• Power tools are handheld or stationary tools powered by electricity or pneumatic power.
• To start flipping power tools, learn about popular brands and models like DeWalt or Makita, source from retail stores or online marketplaces like Home Depot or eBay, evaluate condition and functionality by testing equipment or inspecting for wear and tear, and price competitively based on quality and demand.

Motorized Items

• Motorized items include vehicles and machinery powered by an engine or motor.
• To start flipping motorized items, learn about popular brands and models like Harley Davidson or John Deere, source from reputable dealers or auctions like Barrett-Jackson or Mecum Auctions, evaluate condition and functionality by inspecting engines and features, and price competitively based on design and demand.

Video Games and Consoles

• Video games and consoles are electronic devices used for playing video games and are highly collectible and valuable items.
• To start flipping video games and consoles, research popular and in-demand titles and platforms like PlayStation or Xbox, source items from online marketplaces or local game stores like GameStop, and verify that the games and consoles are in good condition and functioning properly before reselling them at a competitive price.

Gadgets or Tech Items

• Gadgets or tech items include various electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches.
• To start flipping gadgets or tech items, learn about popular brands and models like Apple or Samsung, source from retail stores or online marketplaces like Best Buy or Amazon, evaluate condition and functionality by testing the devices, and price competitively based on age and demand.

VCRs and VHS Tapes

• VCRs and VHS tapes are electronic devices and tapes used for playing video recordings and can be highly collectible and nostalgic.
• To start flipping VCRs and VHS tapes, learn about popular brands and models, source from thrift stores or online marketplaces, and evaluate condition and functionality.

Collectibles

• Collectibles include various items that are considered valuable or rare due to their uniqueness or historical significance.
• To start flipping collectibles, learn about popular categories and items, source from reputable dealers or auctions, and evaluate condition and authenticity.

Board Games

• Board games are tabletop games played with pieces and dice or cards and can be highly collectible and nostalgic.
• To start flipping board games, learn about popular titles and editions, source from thrift stores or online marketplaces, and evaluate condition and completeness.

Lego Sets

• Lego sets are building block toys that can be highly collectible and valuable, particularly if they are rare.
• To start flipping Lego sets, learn about popular themes and editions, source from retail stores or online marketplaces, and evaluate condition and completeness.

Trading Cards

• Trading cards are collectible cards featuring sports teams, athletes, or characters from various franchises and can be highly valuable.
• To start flipping trading cards, learn about popular categories and editions, source from reputable dealers or online marketplaces, and evaluate condition and authenticity.

Fruits

• Fruits are edible products that can be grown and sold for profit, particularly if they are rare or in high demand.
• To start flipping fruits, learn about popular varieties and growing conditions, source from local farmers or wholesalers, and evaluate quality and freshness.

Domain Names

• Domain names are website addresses that can be bought and sold for profit, particularly if they are popular or have a high search engine ranking.
• To start flipping domain names, learn about popular keywords and search terms, source from domain name marketplaces or auctions, and evaluate search engine rankings and popularity.

How to Start Your Flipping Business in 7 Steps

The average annual pay for a reseller is over $80,000. Not bad right? So it’s understandable why one would want to break into this business. And for individuals with a keen eye for quality, strong negotiation skills, and a drive to generate income, flipping can be a highly profitable business. 

If you’re thinking of launching a flipping business, follow these seven essential steps to thrive: 

Step 1: Write a Business Plan

Initiating a flipping business, like any other venture, begins with devising a detailed business plan. This plan will lay out your objectives, target audience, competitive landscape, financial forecasts, and promotional strategies. 

It acts as a guide for your business, keeping you on track with your goals. While crafting your business plan, assess your strengths and weaknesses, budget, and growth timeline. A well-structured business plan will enable you to recognize potential obstacles and prospects, ensuring you make informed decisions to attain success in your flipping business.

Step 2: Choose Your Location or Platform

With a solid business plan established, the next step involves selecting a suitable location or platform for your flipping business. Your choice will depend on the items you intend to flip, as you might opt for an exclusively online presence using e-commerce platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Etsy. 

Alternatively, you might focus on physical venues such as flea markets, cars, or real estate investments. When making your decision, take into account aspects like accessibility, competition, and overhead expenses. 

If you decide to operate online, ensure you establish a professional website or social media presence to display your inventory and appeal to prospective buyers.

Step 3: Decide on Your Business Structure

Once you have chosen your location or platform, the next step is to decide on your business structure. There are several common business structures to choose from, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common business structures include:

• Sole proprietorship
• Partnership
• Limited Liability Company (LLC)
• Corporation

When choosing your business structure, consider factors like personal liability, taxes, and business expenses. It’s important to consult with a lawyer or accountant to ensure that you choose the structure that best fits your business needs and goals.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Registering your flipping business with the appropriate authorities is then the next step. This process may vary depending on your location and the type of flipping business you plan to operate. You may need to register with your state or local government, obtain a tax identification number (TIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and apply for any necessary licenses or permits. 

It’s advised to research the specific requirements for registering your flipping business in your area and ensure that you have completed all necessary steps to operate legally. Failure to register properly can result in penalties or legal consequences down the line.

Step 5: Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits

Once your flipping business is registered, the next step is to secure any required licenses and permits. 

Some typical licenses and permits for flipping businesses include:

• Resale permit: Necessary for businesses that sell goods intended for resale.
• Business license: Mandatory for all businesses operating within a particular jurisdiction.
• Sales tax permit: Essential for businesses selling taxable items, requiring them to collect and remit sales tax.
• Special permits: May be needed for businesses selling particular items, such as firearms or alcohol.

It’s crucial to research and obtain the appropriate licenses and permits for your flipping business in your area before starting operations. Neglecting to secure the necessary licenses and permits may lead to fines or legal issues in the future.

Step 6: Open a Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account for your flipping business is essential after obtaining all necessary licenses and permits. This provides numerous benefits, such as separating your business and personal finances, which helps you better monitor cash flow and expenses. 

It also helps to simplify tax reporting, establish positive banking history for future loans and lines of credit, and gives your flipping business a more professional image—thereby building trust with potential customers and partners. 

When opening a business account, carefully select a reputable bank or credit union and pay attention to the fees and services offered to keep accurate records.

Step 7: Promote Your Flipping Business

The final step in launching your flipping business is to effectively promote it to attract customers and boost sales. Various marketing strategies can help advertise your flipping business, such as:

• Establishing a professional website or social media presence to display your inventory and engage potential buyers.
• Employing search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to enhance your website’s visibility in search results.
• Networking with other businesses or individuals in your field to foster relationships and uncover new opportunities.
• Providing promotions, discounts, or referral incentives to encourage repeat business and attract new customers.
• Crafting engaging product descriptions and creating high-quality images to present your inventory and establish customer trust.

Marketing is vital for the success of your flipping business. Regularly assessing and adjusting your marketing tactics will ensure you effectively reach your target audience and generate sales. 

How to Start Flipping and Earn Money?

As exciting as launching a flipping business can be, it requires meticulous planning and implementation. By following the seven steps above, you can create a thriving flipping business that yields profits and expands over time. 

Nonetheless, operating a flipping business can be intricate and demanding, especially when it comes to bookkeeping and accounting for the transactions. 

This is where doola’s bookkeeping services come into play. We can assist you in managing your finances, monitoring expenses, and maximizing your profitability—allowing you to concentrate on developing your flipping business. 

Reach out today to discover how we can support you in elevating your flipping business.

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