Selling used homeschool curriculum… these four words make even the toughest veteran homeschool moms cringe. It is an irritating laborious process at best, and downright dreadful at its worst. But it is a necessary part of saving money as a homeschool family.
The struggle to sell used homeschool curricula and supplies is real!
Valuable Space
Where are your homeschool books that you aren’t using? Are they on a bookshelf in your house somewhere? Are they in bins, a closet, the garage, maybe in a storage shed? What would you rather do with that valuable real estate that they are occupying?
Valuable Assets
How much money did you invest in those books that you are no longer using? How great would it be to make some of it back? Especially those that are hardly used. We all have them, you know the ones we are talking about. The curriculum you bought hoping it would be great, but ended up hating it, so it was tossed aside because your relationships and sanity are worth more than a book or the precious money you spent buying it. Whether your curriculum is gently used or barely touched, selling it can help recoup some of the costs and benefit another homeschooling family in need.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to successfully sell your used homeschool curricula:
Step 1: Assess and Organize
Before listing anything for sale, take inventory of all your homeschool materials. Sort them by subject, grade level, and condition. Separate out any materials that are no longer usable or in poor condition.
Step 2: Clean and Prepare
Ensure that all materials are clean and presentable. Wipe down books, DVDs, or manipulatives to remove any dust or dirt. Gather any supplementary materials such as answer keys, teaching guides, or lesson plans that came with the curriculum.
Step 3: Set a Fair Price
Research the market value of similar curriculum materials. Websites like eBay, Amazon, and homeschool-specific marketplaces can provide a good benchmark. Consider the condition of your items and whether you are selling as a bundle or individually when setting your price.
Step 4: Choose Where to Sell
There are several platforms where you can sell used homeschool curricula:
Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Amazon, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace allow you to reach a broad audience.
Homeschool-Specific Platforms: Websites such as Homeschool Classifieds, Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping, and local homeschool co-op groups often have a targeted audience looking specifically for curriculum materials.
Step 5: Create Detailed Listings
Write clear and detailed descriptions for each item you’re selling. Include the title, publisher, edition, condition, and any other relevant details like whether it comes from a smoke-free or pet-free home. High-quality photos can also significantly enhance your listing.
Step 6: Be Transparent
Honesty is key to successful sales. Disclose any wear and tear, highlighting any significant damage or missing components. This builds trust with potential buyers and avoids issues after the sale.
Step 7: Arrange Shipping or Pickup
Decide whether you will offer shipping or local pickup options. If shipping, calculate shipping costs accurately and decide if you will offer international shipping or restrict sales to your own country.
Step 8: Communicate Promptly
Respond promptly to inquiries and messages from potential buyers. Be courteous and professional in all your communications to maintain a positive selling experience.
Step 9: Finalize the Sale
Once you’ve found a buyer, finalize the sale promptly. Confirm the payment method and address for shipping. Package the items securely to prevent damage during transit.
Step 10: Provide Excellent Customer Service
After the sale, follow up with the buyer to ensure they received the items as described and are satisfied with their purchase. A positive experience encourages repeat business and referrals.
Selling used homeschool curricula can be a rewarding experience, both financially and personally but it does take effort and work on your part. By following these steps and putting in a little effort to organize and market your materials effectively, you can help other homeschooling families while recouping some of your investment. Remember, the key to successful sales lies in honesty, organization, and good communication. Happy selling!