This can benefit you in two ways. Firstly you will find a ready market for all your own unwanted goods, and secondly you will be able to get a reasonably good price for them. This is particularly true if your items are not particularly common.

So how do you get started if you like the idea of making some extra cash in this way?

Firstly it pays to see what items you have to sell. You don't need to sell everything in one hit if you have a lot ? split it into batches and do a few items at a time if you find it easier.

You also need to consider how much you can sell your items for. This can depend on a number of factors. For example, if there are dozens of other similar items doing the rounds then you will realise a much lower price than if you were the only person selling it. This all depends on how many people are out there looking for what you have to sell of course.

Another point to remember is how you are going to sell each item. One of the best ways is to place a classified advert on a website that will be seen by plenty of people. Consider whether you can post the item too, as this will affect how you promote each item.

For example, a used DVD could be posted quite easily anywhere in the UK ? even abroad as well. But if you are selling a used exercise bike then the buyer will need to collect it, and as such this needs to be made clear in your ad.

In this respect, the way you word your ad is very important. You need to be sure you are honest, clear and straightforward, and you don't over dramatise the benefits or advantages of the item in question. People want facts, not fluff, and a good strong advert is always going to be factual in nature.

are a great way of getting rid of all those items you have cluttering up your home. If you approach it in the right way you can make a handy second income from it too. A lot of people start off selling in this way, only to create a small business selling all kinds of things online.

Could you be next in line? If you are, you might be thankful of the day you started making money from your possessions in this way.