6 Tips to Make the Most of Your Used Gadgets

The new iPhone 7 has been available for less than four months, and already the web is aflutter with speculation and leaks about the next generation of iPhones. In a world of planned obsolescence for all the tech gadgets that seem vital to our everyday pursuits, it comes as no surprise that pretty much everyone has a few hundred dollars worth of “outdated” electronics lying around.

There’s good news for anyone looking to sell their older model devices for some cold hard cash. An ever-growing market of secondary and refurbished devices means it’s become easier and easier for people to sell older models they no longer need either via trade-in websites like Stopoint and Amazon or via classified portals like Craiglist or eBay. But with so many retailers, businesses, and independent sales platforms, what’s the best way to get the most money out of that old smartphone? Here are six tips for maximizing the trade-in or resale value of your used gadgets and devices.

1. Looks Matter

Your scratched up device isn’t going to fetch a great price on the resale market, even if it works like brand spanking new on the inside. While some normal wear and tear is expected, the better your device looks, the more value it will have. Think of it in terms of Amazon ratings. Is your device Like New, Very Good, Good, or Barely Acceptable? That’s why it’s smart to invest in some quality cases for your device. Go for durability and function, not aesthetics. That clear PCU case with the floral print might look pretty, but it’s not doing much to preserve the pristine shell of your phone or tablet, nor will it prevent a giant crack on the screen from an accidental drop. Make sure the protective covering you choose protects against scratches, falls, and water to minimize wear and tear.

2. Keep All Original Packaging

Speaking of looks, making sure you have the original box, instructions, dongles and accessories can increase the value if you decide to sell it to a private third party. It just provides more reassurance to them that the product was taken care of, and it feels more legitimate. If you don’t have any of the original packaging, fear not, as there are plenty of websites who buy used devices as-is for recycling purposes.

3. What’s on the Inside Counts Too

Just in case you thought a pretty face was all you needed, the inside of your device matters too in terms of resale. Always keep your operating systems up to date, with the latest patches and improvements. Any hacks or viruses can damage the internal specs of the devices and seriously diminish resale value. If you can, avoid jailbreaking or hardware modifications that can compromise the internal hardware and software. If you have the technical know-how, return your device to its original factory settings before attempting to sell it – it can give it a little performance and value boost while simultaneously mitigating any concerns about personal data on your device.

4. Keep Up with Routine Maintenance

Oil, dust, and other microparticles will invariably collect on or in your device. Even a regular wipe down with a microfiber cloth is better than nothing. Regular battery and hardware checks are also essential to ensure your device is in the best condition it can be when you choose to sell. And always keep your device away from extreme weather and temperature conditions to avoid premature deterioration. If your device allows for modifications to change the battery or other hardware, doing so may bring in more value than selling it as is.

5. Timing Is Crucial

Know when to sell. The value of a used product diminishes each time a new model is out. In some instances, it’s possible to upgrade with minimal cost if you know when to sell and where to sell. For instance, if a new iPhone model is set to be announced in October, aim to sell your current model before the new model hits the retail stores; there may be a rush of people trying to sell once the new model is available, driving down prices.

6. Choosing the Right Channel to Sell

While it might be tempting to list your items on eBay or Craigslist, be careful when calculating the resale value of your items. Many sites that allow you to list your own products will take a portion of the selling price, not to mention transaction fees from credit cards or PayPal. There is also a greater risk of getting scammed out of your items by shady buyers. Retailers will often have trade-in programs, but those tend to offer lower value than independent trade-in sites (and depending on the condition of your item, some will offer you no money at all, simply a free “recycle” service). Fortunately, there are trustworthy third party websites that are likely able to offer the best resale value for your device without the risk and hassle of listing it yourself. Shop around and look for ones that match competitor quotes for the best deals on your used device.

Featured photo credit: Pixabay via pixabay.com

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Source: Lifehack.org