Are there any old records you'd like to sell?There are many people who are willing to buy your old records from you.If you're close to getting some cash for them, read carefully and find out if they are worth a lot of money.
Step 1: You can study the attics, Basements and Closets.
Valuable space in your home could be freed up for other uses.Long-playing 10 and 12-inch discs, playing at 33 1/3 revolutions per minute, 78s, and 45s are breakable discs and could prove valuable.
Step 2: Prepare to profit off your past if you gather together all the records you think you want to get rid of.
Step 3: Take into account supply and demand.
The record is available.Many will turn up in thrift shops, used record stores and homes if millions were initially sold.The scarcity factor needs to be present.There needs to be a demand for that record because of the artists performing, the label on which it was recorded, or the fact that the original recording is a "reissue".The scarcity factor can be affected by whether a record is no longer available from the manufacturer."Bootlegs" are records illegally produced from live concerts or broadcasts.
Step 4: The record needs to be checked.
It will have the highest possible value if it is in mint condition.There should be no loss of sound quality or distorted sounds on a very good record.It is good if it has some flaws, but can be enjoyed."Fair" means it can play, but it will have an obvious sound impairment and detract from your enjoyment and the value of the record.There will be little or no value in those with surface noise and scratches.Some dealers have different scales.
Step 5: Think about what's in the recording.
The value would be greater if there was more interest in music than in spoken word or comedy.Sales prices for certain kinds of musical recordings are high.Jazz records and original Broadway cast and movie soundtracks tend to be more active in the market.The doo-wop sound and early rhythm and blues records are very collectible.Orchestral performances, then solo instrumental, chamber music and concertos, solo vocal and operatic arias are the most valuable classical records.The value of a record depends on whether it's mono or stereo.There are tips for emerging trends.
Step 6: Find the right person to buy your treasure.
Collectors, mail order dealers, used records stores, and the general public all purchase records.Some people think the sound quality of vinyl is better than that of a CD or other media format.The best prices for rare records will come from dealers who know how much they can sell them for.People who collect are sometimes fanatical about their hobby.They may pay top prices.It is unusual to get top dollar for a rare record from the general public, where only the performance value is recognized.
Step 7: Before you start a transaction, do your research.
Painstaking research is required to determine the value of a recording.Once you have determined that the record is truly rare, it may be possible to determine a value for it.Check out the tips for more on pricing.
Step 8: You should catalog your records.
List the artist, title, 45 or 78rpm, record catalog number, and its condition.
Step 9: Find buyers.
Take the list to a record librarian, a local record store or some used record stores for offers and indications as to rarity.Talk to people you don't know.You can advertise in local publications.You can go to record shows, local used record stores, flea markets or bazaars.You can sell your records on eBay if you use the internet.
Step 10: Most sales will be conducted on the internet without either party meeting each other in person.
You are more likely to pack and ship without ever meeting the buyer.The small fee per transaction is worth it since you can accept major credit cards or e-checks, and if you choose, shipping charges are included in the original electronically created and automatically email invoice.Payment is usually received in full in a matter of minutes.
Step 11: Vinyl can be damaged in transit, but it is difficult to damage if packaged correctly.
The buyer can be reimbursed for lost or damaged records if shipping insurance is purchased along with regular postal charges.If the item is properly packaged, insured and has delivery confirmation requested, sellers are not responsible for damaged or lost freight.It's normal for buyers to pay for postage costs and handling fees.Do not send items to C.O.D.Many sellers do not offer refunds if they have completely and honestly described all flaws on the record and cover, and properly packaged and shipped the item.3 to 30 day refunds are offered by some sellers, but they may only offer a trade for like item or credit with the seller.