Closet overflowing? High End Consignment Could be the Answer

We get it: You have a taste for the finer things in life. There is nothing wrong with that. In fact, we have long encouraged readers to steer clear of buying cheap stuff because it usually ends up costing them more in the long run. Remember a good pair of leather shoes, a high-quality bag or wallet can last a lifetime.

If you are a fan of high-end items, you should know that online consignment shopping is a great way to find luxury brands at low-end prices.

On the other hand, if you already own a closet full of brand-name clothing and accessories, online consignment sites can work with you to turn your treasures into cash.

E-commerce now accounts for more than 11 percent of all retails sales in the U.S. So, whether you are shopping for deals on brands such as Burberry, Gucci, Chanel, Prada and Louis Vuitton – or have high-class items like those to sell, there are an abundance online consignment shops to choose from.

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eBay might be the first one that comes to mind, but that popular site offers a far-reaching showroom where everything from auto parts to appliances to antiques is for sale. If it’s fashion and accessories you are after – or wanting to sell – you might want to consider more specialized sites such as ThredUp and Swap.com. However, visitors to those websites should know they may encounter many of the same brand names they find in the average brick-and-mortar mall – often for about the same price.

Specialized Consignment Shops

If it is high-end you are after, there are consignment sites focused exclusively on designer bargains. Finding them may require a little more shoe leather, but most offer genuine deals on designer brands.

For instance, with a little home homework, a savvy bargain hunter can find limited-edition Louis Vuitton Bags online, for about 30 percent of what it would cost in Beverly Hills. This can save shoppers around $4,500, as it is common to see a Louis Vuitton bag run at a price of $6,500.

If it’s extra income you are after, then online consignment is also worth exploring. Assuming you have the fineries these sites prefer, most reputable dealers will give you an honest appraisal based solely on photos and information you can submit online. It couldn’t be any more convenient.

They may offer to sell your merchandise – or they might purchase it outright. Either way, you will know up front how much you can expect and exactly what the commission will be. If you like what you hear, you simply sign a contract and ship the merchandise to them. In some cases, the consignment shop may even cover the cost of your postage.

In fact, some outlets such as CoutureUSA will even clean up the items and have professional photographers and writers create a mini-marketing campaign around them, making sure prospective buyers see them in the best possible light. The best part of all: the consignment business takes care of everything – entertaining offers, haggling, selling and shipping.

Whether you are looking for a bargain on a boutique item or you want to turn your high-priced goods such as handbags, jewelry or last season’s fur coat into extra income, online consignment is a great way to save – or earn – some extra money!