1. Pin down exactly what you have
Most pricing mistakes start with the wrong identity. Two items that look the same can be worth very different amounts because of a model number, a generation, a storage size, a colourway or a limited edition. Before you look at any price:
- Find the brand, model name and model number. Check labels, tags, the underside, the battery compartment, inside the lid or the original box.
- Note the variant: size, capacity, colour, edition, region and year where they matter.
- Write down what is included: box, manual, charger, cables, dust bag, spare parts, receipts.
If you cannot find a label, photograph the item clearly from several sides. A clear photo of the whole item plus a close-up of any text is often enough to narrow it down.
2. Grade the condition honestly
Condition changes value more than most people expect. Use plain, honest grades and describe flaws rather than hiding them:
- New or unused: never used, ideally sealed or with tags.
- Like new: used briefly, no visible wear.
- Good: normal signs of use that do not affect function.
- Fair: obvious wear, small faults or missing non-essential parts.
- For parts or repair: does not work as intended.
Test anything electronic before you price it. "Untested" usually sells for much less than "tested and working".
3. Look at what similar items actually sold for
Asking prices tell you what sellers hope to get. Sold prices tell you what buyers paid. When you can, start from recent sales of the same model in a similar condition, then use current listings to see the competition. Our guide to sold versus active listings explains why the two differ, and how to see sold listings on eBay shows where to find sale records.
Prefer recent sales: prices for electronics and trending items can move within weeks. For rarer items you may need to look further back, and accept a wider range.
4. Read a range, not a single number
Comparable sales rarely agree to the cent. Ignore the extremes, such as a mis-listed bargain or a hopeful outlier, and look at where most sales cluster. The middle of that cluster is a sensible estimate for an item in average condition. Move up for better condition or a complete set, and down for wear or missing parts.
5. Subtract what it costs to sell
The price a buyer pays is not what you keep. Marketplace fees, payment fees, postage and packaging come off the top, and so does your own time. Work out your take-home amount before you decide whether selling is worth it. See what you keep after selling for a step-by-step calculation.
6. Decide: sell, keep, bundle or donate
Once you know the realistic range and your take-home amount, the decision is usually clear. Low-value items can be bundled or donated. Mid-value items are worth listing with good photos. High-value or collectible items deserve extra checks on authenticity, completeness and condition before you list.
When to ask a professional
For fine jewellery, art, antiques, rare coins and items for insurance or estate purposes, get a formal appraisal from a qualified specialist. An online estimate is a starting point for research, not a certified valuation.
How WorthAI helps
WorthAI turns one photo into a starting point. It identifies the likely model and variant, estimates a value range and shows the marketplace listings behind it, so you can check the evidence yourself. If the identity is wrong, tap Refine Result and the numbers update. You stay in control: confirm the model, compare the evidence and choose your price.
Frequently asked questions
How can I find out what something is worth for free?
Identify the exact model, then look up recent sales of the same item in a similar condition on major marketplaces. Use the middle of the sold prices as your estimate, adjusted for condition.
Is the price on a listing what an item is worth?
Not necessarily. A listing shows an asking price, which may never sell. Completed sales are better evidence of value.
Why do similar items sell for different prices?
Differences in variant, condition, completeness, timing, photos and shipping cost all affect the final price, even for items that look identical.