Many people overlook the potential value of items tucked away in their homes. According to eBay CEO Jamie Iannone, the average household could contain $3,000 to $4,000 worth of products that can be sold online. From collectibles like Pokémon cards and trading cards to gently used electronics, clothing, and home décor, these items represent untapped cash opportunities.
Speaking on Yahoo Finance’s Opening Bid Unfiltered podcast, Iannone emphasized that selling on eBay isn’t just for entrepreneurs—it’s a chance for anyone to monetize unused items. With millions of active buyers on the platform and a strong market for both new and secondhand goods, eBay makes it easy to unlock hidden value in your home.
Unlocking Hidden Value in Your Home
Speaking on Yahoo Finance’s Opening Bid Unfiltered podcast, Iannone emphasized that eBay’s mission is to help people discover and sell items they no longer use. “The whole idea is to unlock what’s in people’s closets and garages and houses,” he said. “And so, really unlocking all of that amazing inventory.”
From collectibles like Pokémon cards to vintage trading cards, these items are not just nostalgic—they’re part of a booming market. Collectibles alone account for $10 billion in annual sales on the platform, making them a lucrative option for casual sellers and collectors alike.
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eBay’s Growing Influence
This month, eBay celebrated its 30th anniversary, highlighting three decades of connecting buyers and sellers globally. With 134 million active buyers in the second quarter of 2025, the platform continues to be a major player in e-commerce. The company’s market value has surpassed $40 billion, and its stock has seen a 46% increase year-to-date.
Since taking the helm in 2020, Iannone has overseen a growth in eBay’s market capitalization by $7 billion, further cementing the platform’s relevance in the digital marketplace. Under his leadership, eBay has expanded not only in size but in its approach to casual and professional sellers alike.
Casual Sellers Turned Entrepreneurs
Iannone highlighted that many sellers on eBay are “accidental entrepreneurs.” These are individuals who did not initially aim to start a business but simply wanted to earn some extra cash. Many turned to eBay to sell secondhand or unused items, which eventually became a side hustle or even a small business.
Nearly half of the items sold on eBay—about 40%—are used or refurbished, appealing especially to younger buyers who prioritize affordability and sustainability. This trend shows that resale is not just a niche market; it’s a mainstream opportunity for anyone looking to monetize items they no longer need.
The Power of Collectibles and Unique Items
Certain categories of items, like collectibles, hold enormous value. From rare trading cards to vintage toys, these items are highly sought after and can fetch surprising prices. The story of a Goodwill vase purchased for $3.99 and later sold at auction for over $100,000 illustrates the untapped potential of everyday items.
eBay provides a platform for sellers to reach a global audience, ensuring that rare or valuable items don’t go unnoticed. This accessibility is one reason why casual sellers can transform what seems like clutter into profitable opportunities.
Financial Performance of eBay
eBay’s recent financial results highlight the platform’s continued growth and relevance. In July 2025, eBay reported second-quarter revenue of $2.7 billion, a 6% increase from the same period last year. Gross merchandise volume—the total value of all products sold—reached $19.5 billion for the quarter, also up 6%.
These numbers reflect the strong demand for both new and secondhand products, confirming that e-commerce platforms like eBay remain crucial channels for sellers and buyers alike.
Making Extra Cash Made Easy
Whether it’s clearing clutter, selling collectibles, or flipping secondhand items, eBay offers a straightforward path to earn money. For many, this process starts small, with just a few items sold from home. Over time, some casual sellers evolve into full-fledged online entrepreneurs, building side hustles or supplementing their income with minimal upfront investment.
Iannone explains, “We have a lot of accidental entrepreneurs, people that didn’t intend to build a business on eBay, they just needed money. So they turned to eBay to make a little extra money and turned that into a side business.”
Why eBay Remains Relevant
Despite competition from other online marketplaces, eBay continues to attract millions of buyers and sellers. Its focus on accessibility, variety, and the resale market sets it apart. The platform is not only a place to shop but a tool for unlocking value in everyday life, empowering people to monetize items they no longer need.
As eBay turns 30, its continued growth and innovation demonstrate that the resale market is far from slowing down. For those sitting on hidden treasures at home, the platform offers a simple and effective way to turn clutter into cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
What items in my home could be worth selling on eBay?
Common valuable items include collectibles (like trading cards, Pokémon cards, and toys), electronics, designer clothes, vintage home décor, and gently used furniture. Even small items like books, video games, or branded accessories can fetch a good price.
How much money can I realistically make selling items on eBay?
According to eBay CEO Jamie Iannone, the average household contains $3,000 to $4,000 worth of items that could be sold online. Actual earnings depend on the type, condition, and rarity of the items you sell.
Do I need to be an entrepreneur to sell on eBay?
No. Many eBay sellers are “accidental entrepreneurs,” selling items they no longer need simply to earn extra cash. Some casual sellers eventually grow their sales into a small business, but it’s not required to start.
How do I start selling items on eBay?
To start, create an eBay account, list items with clear photos and descriptions, set a competitive price or auction, and ship sold items promptly. eBay provides guides and tools to help beginners sell successfully.
Are used items popular on eBay?
Yes. Nearly 40% of items sold on eBay are used or refurbished. Buyers often look for affordable, pre-owned items, making secondhand products a high-demand category.
Why are collectibles so valuable on eBay?
Collectibles like trading cards, vintage toys, and rare items have strong demand among collectors. Some items can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars, especially if they’re rare or in excellent condition.
Is selling on eBay worth it financially?
eBay reported $2.7 billion in revenue in Q2 2025, with $19.5 billion in merchandise sold. This demonstrates the platform’s continued growth and reliability, making it a worthwhile marketplace for sellers of all levels.
Can selling on eBay become a full-time job?
Yes, some sellers start with a few items and scale their efforts into full-time online businesses. Many begin as casual sellers and gradually expand into side hustles or professional e-commerce ventures.
Conclusion
Many households are sitting on hidden treasures worth thousands of dollars, from collectibles and electronics to gently used clothing and home items. As eBay CEO Jamie Iannone highlights, selling these items online is not just for entrepreneurs—it’s an opportunity for anyone to turn clutter into cash. With millions of active buyers on the platform and a proven marketplace for both new and used goods, eBay makes it easy to unlock the value of items you no longer need.
