Everyone knows that shopping at a second hand store is one of the best ways to save some money, but what you may not know is you could actually be making a profit off your favorite hobby! A growing part of our community is turning to resale as a way to make some extra cash.

The Arc Store has quite a few customers who find low-priced treasures in our stores and sell them for profit – from antique aficionados to those with a keen eye for valuable electronics. People are taking advantage of the idea that one man’s trash could be another man’s rent check! 

Facebook

Facebook groups are emerging as a way to sell and trade unwanted items. Shabby Chic is a group where Butte County residents can post their items for sale, from second hand finds to DIY restorations and projects. You could easily make a few extra dollars by looking through The Arc Store’s 50% off Parking Lot Sale for some inexpensive furniture, giving it some love and a new coat of paint, and posting it for sale. Apartment Therapy is a great online resource that gives a list of ten common thrift store finds that are perfect for DIY projects.

You may not even have to fix anything up. There are those who search for valuable items, like electronics, and post them right to ebay or other online stores. This can be a great way to supplement your income without taking too much time out of your day.

ebay

Some of our customers have even made this a full time job, making a daily round of local second hand stores and jumping on the items they can sell. Blue Frog Shoes is an ebay shop run by a local couple who find great quality second hand shoes and sell them online. You can bet they take advantage of the Arc Store’s amazing $1 shoe sale!

Etsy

Another great place to sell your unique finds online is Etsy. Look for vintage items or add handmade embellishments to your thrift store finds, and watch them double in value. TheWinners is an Etsy shop almost entirely made up of denim jackets, like the one pictured below, with embellishments and patches done by hand. Some sell for more than $100! It’s not just for clothing either; Etsy is full of vintage and embellished items for your home too.

[Photo courtesy of TheWinners]

If you’re wondering how you can turn your favorite hobby into a money-making endeavor, ask yourself: “What could I do with this? How much could I get for it?” Join the growing number of locals turning to resale as a hobby or job. Second hand stores could just be the cash cow you’re looking for. Come on down to your local Arc Store and see what kind of treasures you’ve been missing out on!