Setting up shop

Once you're a registered member of the community, you will be prompted to register to become a seller. You will be asked to:

Choose a User ID. Other eBay members will come to recognize you by your ID, so it's a good idea to choose one you'll want to use for the long term.

Create a password.

Answer a question for future ID verification (e.g., Mom's maiden name).

Click on the confirmation button in a verification e-mail to continue.

Provide credit card information for ID verification (no charges are made to your card and the site provides information about this policy for those unsure about placing a credit card on file).

Select how you'll pay seller fees-either using the same credit card or a preauthorized debit card.

When you've dealt with all of the administrative details, it's time to create a listing for the item you'd like to auction. The site will prompt you to:

1.Select a format-click Online auction or Sell at a fixed price.

2.Select a currency. If you wish to sell internationally, it is best to choose American currency.

3.Select a category (art, collectibles, etc.). The site will make recommendations on where to place your item to ensure it reaches your target audience.

4.Enter a title and description. This is your chance to lure potential buyers; precisely describe the item and list condition, dimensions, history, etc.

5.Enter the minimum price at which you want bidding to start or set a "buy it now" fixed price. As a new seller you will be allowed to sell only one item at a time. When your Feedback rating (explained below) from buyers reaches 10+, you will be eligible for multiple listings.

6.Select the duration of the auction-your choice of one, three, five, seven, or 10 days. Seven days is the most popular selection as many bidders shop only on weekends.

7.List the location of your item and increase your exposure by also "listing regionally." This is especially good for finding buyers in your vicinity who prefer to pick up an item, such as furniture, that can be difficult to ship.

8.Add a picture. This is optional, but highly recommended. eBay allows one photo for free, but for a fee of only U.S. 75 cents, you can supersize your picture or even create a slide show. You can use a digital image, but the file must be in jpeg, tif, or bmp format. It's as simple as adding an attachment to an e-mail.

9.Choose accepted payment methods and list shipping costs and d