“Garage Sale Without Borders” is a new fundraising opportunity for Beth Chaim Congregation, one that does not require any cash outlay or future commitments from you. Following are a number of questions and answers that, hopefully, will encourage you to participate.
Give me the quick overview!
OK. Most of us have items of value that we no longer want or need. Often, they are collecting dust in our garages or are buried in the back of a drawer or cabinet. Of course, many of us have also fantasized about selling those items on eBay, but we never get around to it, or we don’t want to go through the time consuming steps of putting an item or items on the largest 24-7 marketplace in the world, eBay.
Well now, there is a far easier way to dispose of those valuables, and Beth Chaim will receive the financial benefit. We will get regular checks from “I Sold It on eBay” from the sale of your unneeded items. Through a co-operative arrangement between Beth Chaim and local “I Sold It on eBay” stores, professionals will list, store, sell and ship those items for you. It couldn’t be easier for both you and Beth Chaim Congregation! You get rid of “stuff” and Beth Chaim gets the money!
Now for the Q and A:
What does Beth Chaim Congregation get out of it?
Beth Chaim Congregation receives 75% of the proceeds from the sale of your items. The congregation does not have to collect, store or handle the merchandise in any way.
What is the benefit to me and why should I bother?
You can help your Congregation financially without opening your wallet or checkbook, and you may get a tax deduction, to boot, and by giving the proceeds from the sale of unwanted or unused items, you get to shepn naches.
What is the cost to me?
Other than the value of the item (s), there is NO COST to you.
What is the commission fee to “I Sold It on eBay?”
Since all of the services that are provided by “I Sold It on eBay” are valuable, the commission is set at 25%. That is 5% -10% below the commission fee available to the general public.
What items are most likely to be sold in this manner?
Most items are saleable on eBay. They must weigh less than 150 pounds, be shorter than 108 inches, be worth at least $50 and not be hazardous materials. Examples are:
- theater, concert and game tickets
- small appliances
- cameras
- collectables
- ski and sports equipment
- dining and kitchen ware
- computers and peripherals
What items cannot, or are least likely to sell on E-Bay?
- tobacco
- drugs
- firearms
- alcohol
- non-collectable books
- CDs
- damaged or well-worn clothing
Who is this outfit, “I Sold It on eBay?”
“I Sold It on eBay” is a nationally franchised service provider. They are officially authorized by eBay as a “trading assistant.” Local franchise locations are in Danville at 508 San Ramon Valley Blvd. and in Alamo at 120 Alamo Plaza. Best of all, they are really nice guys.
This sounds too good to be true. So nu, what’s the catch?
Surprisingly, there is no catch! They sell your unwanted items, and Beth Chaim benefits.
This requires no up-front fees to either Beth Chaim or its individual members.
So, what do I have to do to sell my stuff?
Just take your saleable items to one of the two local “I sold It on eBay” stores and tell the clerk that you are with Beth Chaim Congregation. Fill out a brief form; agree on a starting bid price and they will take it form there.
How do I know what price at which to start the bidding?
The experienced experts at “I Sold It on eBay” will assist you with sitting a minimum price.
So, what does “I Sold It on eBay” do for its 25% share of the sales price?
Recognizing that the main reason that many people don’t auction items on eBay is the time and effort that it takes, “I Sold It on eBay” does the following:
- Helps to set the minimum bid price
- Takes digital pictures of the item and writes an effective product description
- Monitors the auction
- Answers questions from potential bidders
- Collects funds from the successful bidder
- Packs and ships the item
- Provides you with appropriate documentation that you may use for your tax return
Now, can you think of better ways to spend your time? We think so.
What happens if my stuff doesn’t sell?
If your stuff doesn’t sell in the designated time, you will get a call to either lower your price or come to the store and pick it up.
What term best describes this fundraising program?
Try “No Brainer!” It’s easy, convenient and it’s a true “win-win” opportunity.
