Gadget prices are increasing each year. Tech giants are justifying the increase with technological advancements. But the truth is average consumers rarely use these high-end features. So instead of buying the latest flagships, they settle with secondhand devices.
Auditing firm Deloitte reveals in a study how profitable secondhand smartphone markets are. If you’re selling your old tech, it won’t take long for you to find buyers. However, if you want to be a reliable seller, there are things you need to do first to keep your item in good condition.
If you want to sell that old gadget for some extra cash, consider doing the following things first. These tips can ensure a sale for you and a positive buying experience from the other party.
Back-up your device
If you’re selling a device with valuable data in it, backing it up is the first thing you should do. You can transfer these important files to your computer so that you can access them offline. Several cloud storage options are also available for backing-up purposes. This action is important so that you have a copy of all your information.
Don’t leave anything out on your device. You have to understand how important data backup is. Transfer them all to your chosen storage. Back up all vital information and restore them to another device.
Erase all data
In line with protecting your data, erasing them after backup is essential too. You may think that your data is not of public interest. But this information can be used to get more information from you. You don’t want your banking details and passwords to be used illegally. Stolen data can even be used for identity theft.
With all these in mind, you should know why you have to erase all your data. Deleting your information doesn’t end there. Complete data erasure also includes canceling recurring subscriptions from services. These are services associated with your phone. Also, turn off locations services and any other settings that can make the device traceable. Protect your information by erasing all necessary information from the device you’re selling.
Identify issues
Speaking of being a reliable seller, your device should be in its best condition before you sell it. Otherwise, you will leave a bad impression on your buyer. So the first thing you should do is to check whether your gadget is still in mint condition. This step will also help you identify if there are unknown issues in your device. In this way, you’d be able to disclose this information once you enlist your device for sale. Disclosing issues with secondhand gadgets is important to build trust with potential buyers. Just think that this may not be the first time you’re going to sell a used gadget. Like any other business deal, you should be honest for a truthful sale.
Clean it
Aside from wiping your devices of sensitive data, you need to physically clean it too. Get rid of all the accumulated dirt and debris that should not be in your device in the first place. This can help your device perform a little like how it used to when you first bought it. You can open it yourself and clean it.
Some services offer cleaning for a low price. This is perfect, especially when you’re selling a PC or a laptop. If your device performs better, you can even pitch it for a higher price. If you want to earn more to build that gaming computer or buy that brand new phone, cleaning your secondhand gadget could make a difference.
Decide on the price
Once your device is good to go, check how much you can sell it. You can do this by researching more about the brand of your electronics. Consider the number of years you’ve used the device. Aside from that, its condition will also play a big role in pricing your device. That’s why it’s crucial to check your gadget first for issues. Look for classified online listings to see how much a secondhand version of your item would cost. You can also have it appraised by shop owners for a more accurate price.
Look for a marketplace
There’s a lot of venues where you can sell your device. You don’t even have to go outside. An option you can try is to sell it in online marketplaces. Websites like eBay and Decluttr can help you find a buyer for your pre-loved electronics. Speaking of having your device appraised by shop owners, you can sell it to them too. Let them buy it if you think they’re giving you a reasonable price.
Selling your pre-loved electronics is one thing. Selling them responsibly is another. While these devices have already gone through a lot, you can still make them worthy for the next person. Hand them down in the best form they can be.