Selling NFL tickets can be a great way to make some extra money, especially if you have season tickets or other access to high-demand games. However, you need an effective strategy if you want to maximize your profits. There are several factors to consider when selling NFL tickets, including timing, pricing, where to sell them, avoiding scams, and more. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best practices to successfully sell your NFL tickets.
When is the best time to sell NFL tickets?
Timing is everything when it comes to getting top dollar for your tickets. In general, the closer you can wait until right before the event, the higher the demand and price will be. However, there are some exceptions:
- Playoff and postseason games – Prices typically go up steadily as the playoffs approach.
- Rivalry and high-profile games – Big matchups like Cowboys vs. Eagles will command a premium price right when they go on sale.
- Weekend and night games – These are more in demand than weekday and daytime games.
- Low-interest games – Some matchups will have low prices no matter when you sell them.
Knowing the team’s schedule and gauging fan interest levels can help you determine the optimal time to post tickets for sale. Be prepared to sell for the best price as soon as in-demand games are announced.
How do I price my NFL tickets?
Setting the right price for your tickets is key to selling them quickly and maximizing your profit. Some tips for pricing tickets include:
- Check comparable ticket prices on secondary marketplaces like StubHub and VividSeats for that particular game.
- Factor in fees charged by the selling platform you use.
- Consider the specific section, row, and seat location – better locations can command higher prices.
- Be mindful of current demand and how early you are posting the tickets.
- Don’t get greedy – it’s better to sell at a reasonable markup than be stuck with tickets you can’t use.
- Be willing to negotiate price within reason.
Monitor market prices in the days leading up to the event and adjust your ask price accordingly. Popular games will often see a spike in prices right before kickoff.
Where should I sell NFL tickets?
You have several options these days for securely selling event tickets online. Some of the most popular platforms include:
- StubHub – Large secondary ticket marketplace with high visibility.
- VividSeats – Similar to StubHub, also very reputable.
- SeatGeek – Convenient mobile app and competitive fees.
- Ticketmaster – Primary ticket source but allows verified resale.
- Craigslist – Classifieds site, ideal for local/cash sales.
- eBay – Broad ecommerce marketplace, provides seller protections.
- NFL Ticket Exchange – Official fan-to-fan site of the NFL.
- Gametime – Last minute tickets with excellent mobile experience.
Evaluate fees, visibility, seller protections and customer support when choosing a marketplace that fits your needs.
How can I avoid scams?
With money on the line, football ticket scams abound both online and locally. Here are some tips for avoiding fakes and frauds:
- Only sell to buyers with good feedback and ratings on reputable platforms.
- Avoid wire transfers or checks – only accept secure digital payment services like PayPal.
- Never send hard tickets until payment clears – use electronic transfer instead.
- Watch out for sob stories or other high-pressure tactics from shady buyers.
- Be wary of buyers who only communicate by phone and won’t provide identification.
- Require ID matching the payment details for hard ticket local sales.
Protect yourself by only using trusted marketplaces and following common sense precautions. Don’t fall for deals that seem too good to be true.
Selling Options Compared
Here is a comparison of some of the most popular NFL ticket resale platforms and considerations:
Platform | Fees | Exposure | Payment | Protections |
---|---|---|---|---|
StubHub | 15% seller fee | High traffic | Direct deposit | Guarantee against invalid tickets |
VividSeats | 10-20% seller fee | High traffic | Check or PayPal | 100% money-back guarantee |
SeatGeek | 15% seller fee | Good traffic | Direct deposit | Guarantee against fraud |
eBay | 10% seller fee | Very high traffic | PayPal | Fraud and buyer protection |
Craigslist | Free | Localized | Cash, PayPal | No protections |
As you can see, each marketplace has its pros and cons in terms of fees, visibility, convenience and risk protection. Consider which factors are most important for your needs.
Tips for selling on StubHub
StubHub is one of the largest NFL ticket resale sites with high visibility and trust in the industry. Here are some tips for effectively selling tickets on StubHub:
- Carefully check event details before listing tickets to avoid errors.
- Include section, row and seat numbers in all listings.
- Add photos of the view to command higher prices.
- Set a reasonable price based on current market rates.
- Monitor your listings and adjust prices as needed.
- Only accept instant digital payment – never physical checks.
- Transfer tickets electronically – never mail hard copies early.
- Provide excellent customer service and quick responses.
StubHub offers seller assistance and guarantees against invalid tickets. However, be sure to understand their policies and fees.
Tips for selling on Craigslist
Craigslist offers local sales without platform fees, but has risks too. Some tips include:
- Ask buyers to contact you initially by email or text – avoid phone-only responses.
- Require buyers to meet you at a safe public location like a coffee shop.
- Accept only cash or digital payment like Venmo or PayPal.
- Bring a companion for safety when meeting strangers.
- Don’t provide hard tickets until payment clears.
- Trust your instincts – if a buyer seems suspicious, walk away.
- Leave immediately if a buyer starts negotiating aggressively.
Craigslist has risks, so meet up wisely in safe areas and avoid cash-only parking lot exchanges. Prioritize your safety over making the sale.
Conclusion
Selling NFL tickets can be extremely lucrative but requires an effective strategy. Timing listings around demand, pricing competitively, picking secure marketplaces, and avoiding scams are all critical to maximize profits and experience. Do your homework ahead of time so you can act quickly when hot-ticket matchups go on sale. Following best practices will allow you to confidently sell your tickets at a fair price and have peace of mind throughout the transaction process.