A strong listing can double your views and help your item sell faster. With the right structure, you can write a clear and trustworthy listing in just a few steps. This guide breaks down the exact steps that top sellers use every day.

Why a strong listing matters

Good writing builds trust. Buyers cannot touch or test your item, so your words and photos must give them confidence. A clear listing helps buyers make fast decisions, which increases views, boosts ranking, and leads to faster sales.

Step 1: Start with a clear and specific title

Your title is the most important part of your listing. Data shows that titles with 15-18 words (or roughly 75+ characters) significantly outperform shorter ones in sales volume. It helps buyers find your item and tells marketplace search engines exactly what you are offering.

What to include:

• Brand

• Model name or number

• Size, color, or edition

• Key attributes

• Condition (if helpful)

Strong title examples:

• Sony A6000 mirrorless camera with lens

• Patagonia Nano Puff jacket in men’s medium

• Apple Watch Series 6 in 44 mm with charger

Avoid: Vague titles like “Great camera” or “Nice jacket.” Studies suggest that replacing vague terms with specific keywords increases search ranking and conversion.

Step 2: Lead with the most important details

Start your description with one or two sentences that answer the buyer’s top questions.

Include:

• What the item is

• Why you are selling it

• How it performs

• What condition it is in

Example: “This Sony A6000 works perfectly and was lightly used for family photos. It includes the original lens and battery.”

Pro tip: Know your platform

Not all marketplaces are the same. Tailor your listing style to where you are selling:

• eBay vs Facebook Marketplace: Which Is Better in 2025? (litCommerce)

• eBay vs Facebook Marketplace: Which Platform is Better? (Vendoo)

Step 3: Describe the condition honestly

Condition affects price and buyer trust. Returns cost retailers approximately 14.5% of total sales, often due to items not matching their description (NRF and Appriss Retail Report). Being open about flaws prevents this.

Cover these details:

• Cosmetic wear

• Scratches or marks

• Any functional issues

• Recent repairs or cleaning

• Frequency of use

Clear condition details help avoid returns and disputes.

Step 4: List everything that is included

Buyers want to know exactly what they will receive. Small details can justify a higher price and help your item sell faster.

Include:

• Original box

• Manuals

• Power cables and chargers

• Accessories

• Cases, straps, or attachments

• Bonus items or bundles

If something is missing, say so.

Step 5: Add keywords that buyers actually search

Keywords help your listing show up in more searches inside the marketplace.

Useful keyword ideas:

• Brand and model variations

• Alternate names

• Product category terms

• Color, size, or style

• Intended user or purpose

Keep it natural and avoid stuffing.

Step 6: Answer common buyer questions before they ask

Sellers who cover common questions upfront get faster conversions and fewer messages.

Helpful details:

• How the item performs

• Age of the item

• Whether the home is pet or smoke-free

• Whether the item has been sanitized

• How fast you ship or meet

Small answers create strong trust signals.

Step 7: Use AI to speed up your listing

AI tools can create titles, descriptions, keywords, and condition summaries in seconds. Hero Stuff makes this even easier by generating listings directly from your photos and videos. Try generating a listing for free…

Benefits:

• Faster workflow

• Better wording

• Fewer mistakes

• Stronger search ranking

Ideal for sellers listing many items at once.

Step 8: Keep your tone friendly and professional

A warm and helpful tone makes buyers feel comfortable.

Tips:

• Use simple language

• Keep sentences short

• Stay positive but honest

• Avoid slang

• Write like you are talking to a real person

A simple listing template you can copy

• Title: Brand + model + key attributes

• First sentences: Brief summary of what it is, why it is great, and the condition.

• Condition details: Specifics about use, wear, functionality, cleaning, or repairs.

• Included items: List everything included.

• Keywords: Extra searchable terms placed naturally.

• Closing line: Friendly reassurance about shipping or local pickup.

Final thoughts

Writing the perfect used product listing takes only a few minutes when you use a clean structure. Combine a clear title, honest details, strong photos, and AI support to get more views and faster sales.