Know what to check before you buy.

Flipping phones: check locks, storage and battery health

A used phone is only comparable when its model, storage, lock status and condition match. Verify those details before deciding what to pay.

• iPhones
• Tablets and iPads

Flipping laptops and graphics cards: compare the actual specification

A laptop name or graphics-card family can hide several configurations. Match the processor, memory, storage and condition before comparing prices.

• Laptops
• Graphics cards

Flipping consoles and games: test the bundle before pricing it

A console bundle needs a working console, usable controllers and an accurate contents list. Do not value every pictured game as a confirmed working copy.

• Game consoles
• Physical video games

Flipping sneakers: match the style, size and condition

The same shoe can have different resale prospects by style code, colourway, size and wear. A popular brand alone is not a buying reason.

• Jordan sneakers
• Running shoes

Flipping vintage clothing: tags, measurements and sellable condition

Choose clothing you can identify and describe accurately. Tag size, actual measurements, fabric and flaws matter more than calling every older piece vintage.

• Vintage jackets
• Jeans

Flipping LEGO and collectibles: completeness changes the comparison

Identify the set, card or figure before pricing it. Missing parts, a different printing or an unsupported grade can make a seemingly close comparison misleading.

• LEGO sets
• Trading cards

Flipping books and records: edition, condition and postage

Low purchase cost does not make every book or record a worthwhile flip. Identify the edition or pressing, check condition and count postage and storage.

• Textbooks
• Vinyl records

Flipping bikes and sports gear: fit, wear and collection

A bike’s model, frame size and mechanical condition matter to the next buyer. For sports gear, identify the specification and included parts before using a comparison.

• Mountain bikes
• Golf clubs

Flipping power tools: know the battery system and what is included

A bare tool and a kit with batteries and charger are different purchases. Identify the model and power system, test operation and count missing equipment.

• Cordless drills
• Lawnmowers

Flipping appliances and homewares: test, measure and plan collection

A working appliance must do its job, not merely light up. Identify the model, confirm condition and plan transport before deciding whether the purchase makes sense.

• Coffee machines
• Vacuum cleaners

Flipping cameras and lenses: identify the mount and test the optics

Two similar-looking lenses can fit different cameras. Identify the exact model and mount, inspect optical condition and test the functions you will describe to a buyer.

• Camera lenses
• Digital cameras

Flipping guitars and keyboards: condition, setup and included gear

An instrument needs to be playable, not just recognisable. Identify the model, check condition and allow for setup or servicing before comparing it with a ready-to-play example.

• Guitars
• Digital pianos and keyboards

How to check a Marketplace listing before you buy

A practical first check for a live second-hand listing: what the seller says, resale, costs and what to do next.

How to calculate your maximum buy price for a flip

Work backwards from a realistic resale price, full costs and the return you want to calculate a maximum buy price.

The flipping costs people forget to count

Check the costs of reselling electronics, clothing, collectibles, tools, furniture and other items, including repairs, postage and selling fees.

What to inspect before buying a used sofa to resell

A field checklist for a used sofa: frame, support, upholstery, odour, access, safety and resale-changing defects.