Textbooks are expensive, so recouping some of your book costs at the end of the semester is a plus. If you no longer need your textbooks, you should consider selling them. There are plenty of ways you can sell your textbooks, including online buyback programs or local bookstores, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. But, you can also sell back textbooks in person.
In-person selling gives you and your buyer some distinct advantages. For the buyer, the ability to see and examine the book condition bolsters their confidence in the purchase. For students who are looking to purchase a cleaner copy of a used book, or have concerns about purchasing textbooks sight-unseen, this can be a big selling point.
With in-person selling, you and your buyer also avoid the hassle and cost of shipping. Because of this, your buyer may be willing to pay a bit more for the book. Your buyer will also have the book immediately in hand, which is reassuring especially when classes are starting soon.
Finally, with an in-person sale, there are no delays in payment. You get paid immediately - a big advantage for your wallet!
Selling textbooks in person requires some of the same preparation as selling textbooks online. First, to maximize your selling price, clean up the book by wiping it down, erasing pencil marks, flattening dog-eared corners, and removing any loose note papers or bookmarks from between the pages.
Next, evaluate the condition of your book. Are the pages clean with minimal highlighting, notes and folds? Is the cover intact? Does the spine show wear? These factors should be considered when determining the book condition.
Finally, check out your pricing competition. You should be able to find the book for sale in a similar condition. Make sure to double check the ISBN code on your book to make sure you are seeing pricing for the same edition of your book.
To get the highest selling price for your textbook, sell at the right time. Many students will be looking to sell their textbooks right after finals, which drives down sell prices. Waiting until the beginning of the next semester, when demand for your textbook is higher, may help you get a better selling price.
Before you can sell your used textbooks, you need to get the word out that they’re available. Promote your books through savvy advertising around campus or online. Focus your advertising on the benefits for your buyer – convenience, good price, excellent book condition, etc.
Once you’ve connected with someone who would like to buy your book, be safe! Always meet at a crowded, public location during the day and never in your dorm or apartment. Bring a friend along when you meet your buyer and tell a trusted friend or family member where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
Now clear off those bookshelves! And remember these tips when you’re looking to sell your textbooks in person.
