Setting the Right Price: Pricing Guide for Used Electronics

The hardest part of selling electronics isn't taking photos or writing descriptions — it's pricing. Price too high and your ad sits. Price too low and you're giving money away. Here's a clear, data-driven approach.

The depreciation curve

Electronics lose value predictably. As a general rule in South Africa:

• Month 0–6 after launch: 80–90% of original price
• Year 1: 65–75%
• Year 2: 50–60%
• Year 3: 35–45%
• Year 4+: 20–30% or less

Higher-end brands (Apple, high-end Samsung, Sony) hold value better. Mid-range Android phones depreciate faster.

Grade your item honestly

Condition matters more than anything else:

• Mint / like-new: no scratches, full box, all accessories → 100% of the price band
• Good: light signs of use, no damage → 85% of the band
• Fair: visible scratches, still works perfectly → 70%
• For parts / spares: screen cracked or battery dying → 20–40%

Do 5 minutes of market research

Before pricing, check:

1. Tradeza — search for the same model, note the 3 cheapest and 3 most expensive asking prices
2. Takealot — check the new price
3. iStore / Samsung SA — official current prices
4. Cash Crusaders / Cash Converters — check their buy-in price (that's your absolute floor)

The sweet-spot formula

Take the middle of the three cheapest recent listings on Tradeza for the same model and condition. Subtract 5%. That's your starting price.

Why 5% lower? Because you want yours to stand out — and most buyers will still try to negotiate 5–10% off, so you leave room.

What to include to boost price

• Original box and accessories — adds 10–15%
• Still under warranty — adds 15–20%
• Proof of purchase — adds credibility, not price
• Battery health (phones) — list it if it's above 85%

What to disclose to keep trust

• Every scratch or dent (photograph them)
• Battery life concerns
• If the screen was ever replaced (and whether OEM or aftermarket)
• If it's ever been water-damaged

Hiding issues wastes everyone's time — buyers spot them immediately and demand refunds, costing you more than the disclosure would have.

Adjust after 5 days

If your ad has few views and no messages after 5 days, drop the price 8–10%. Still nothing after another 5 days? Drop another 10% or consider boosting.

List your electronics now and get fair market value — you have 5 free posts to start.