request for pricing help

[RebeccaMI]

I haven't been actively reenacting for two years. I plan to keep things like dresses and boots because I am not yet ready to give up all possibility of attending an event for a day. However, I no longer see myself camping out at events for entire weekends like I did in the past. This means that I would like to sell some of the items I've accumulated over time but no longer need. It makes far more sense to me to sell them to someone who will use them instead of having them sit in Rubbermaid totes in my basement.

How should I price the items? Generally for used things I go with the "50% of what it cost new" rule, but if something is in really good shape, should/could I ask more for it?

[doughboy]

Ask for what you think you can get and prepare to lower prices as needed

[lincolnsguard]

Surf the Civil War boards and look for going prices.

[Bear Flagger]

Decide if you want money, or price it to move. As Eli said look at the boards and also eBay. Be aware that nobody else has any sentimental value to it.

[Radar]

There will always be someone who wants to dicker. Just be ready for it and don't get offended. That's the nature of the beast.

[RebeccaMI]

I picked the biggest item and checked the "classifieds" here and also checked eBay, both with no luck. I guess it's not the type of thing you find except in the situation of someone getting out of the hobby. No sentimental attachments here, I'd just like to get decent money for something if I've taken good care of it.

I'll probably just end up winging it and bargaining with any interested parties. Thanks anyway folks.

[BobSullivanPress]

As an economics major, I feel I should chime in here. ;0

First, determine your lowest possible price point. This is the price at which you are willing to sell the items, but not a penny less. If someone offers you less than this price, you aren't interested in selling the item.
Next, determine your optimal price point. This is the price that you want to sell your items for. As in, "I'd really like to get X dollars for this."
Once you have determined your selling range, check the classifieds and see if in fact you are being realistic. If the offer price of items is within your range you will have a realistic chance of selling your items.
If you seek the higher price, discuss the positive qualities of your items.
If you seek the lowest price, explain that the items are "priced to move."

Good luck.