Contrary to popular belief, there are legitimate online companies that regularly conduct market research and will pay for your opinion. Besides monetary compensation, you will also get to keep any product you are asked to test.
There are also thousands of scammers that will ask you to sign (and pay) for something before you “qualify” to participate in a survey. Don’t do it! Legitimate companies will never ask for anything from you except that you fill out a questionnaire.
Some legitimate companies that pay for surveys: Baker Street Solutions, 20/20 Research, Bellwether Surveys, and American Consumer Opinion. Google them for more information.
Online Auctions: eBay
Everyone knows by now how eBay works – You list an item for sale, let people bid, collect payment, and then haul the package to the post office to ship.
Start by doing your research. Look at what sells and for what prices, check out the fee structure (you pay both an insertion fee and a percentage of the final sale price), read the Public Forums and the Help section on the website. Buy something for yourself to experience the process firsthand.
Thrift stores and garage sales are a great source of designer clothes, popular toys, and other items that consistently do well on eBay. Always take advantage of end-of-season sales and after-Christmas specials.
Finding a niche can be the key to success. Maybe you live near an outlet that sells discounted brand-name merchandise? Maybe you have access to specialty merchandise such as As-Seen-On-TV products or hot collectibles? A few years ago, a woman made a remarkable income on eBay by selling high-end breastfeeding garments she bought from a local shop at steep discounts.