Regarding categories on ebay

[Duer 157099]

I just noticed something on ebay that bugs me, and it brought up some questions that I have regarding where to list certain items. In particular, I'm focused on mid-century type items right now, and I'm thinking that the best strategy for listing is to put it in 2 places, one for the specific type of item, and then one in the mid-century area.

Except, I noticed some tricky business going on, probably so ebay can collect more fees.

Look at these two categories:

Collectibles > Vintage, Retro, Mid-Century > 1950s
Antiques > Periods, Styles > Mid-Century Modernism

First of all, how in the world can mid-century be legitimately placed in the antiques category? Antiques must be 100 years old. This just really irks me, because while I understand how they can justify it, it makes it almost necessary to list in both of those categories, which are not only redundant, but one is completely illegitimate!

Ok, aside from the rant, what is your experience/preference in terms of either listing or searching? I like to browse sections for items that are not quite thoroughly described, so using the search terms is not always the best option. But having multiple redundant categories obviously makes it harder.

[zabet]

1. Search for completed listings that are similar to what you want to list...

see which category the most are listed in (that sold) and that is the one I would list in.

[grasswire]

2. the PTB obviously know nothing

I tried for many years to get the categories amplified and changed in one area. Nada. They were finally changed and added to, but in a way that is totally nuts.

[Whoa_Nelly]

3. It's the keywords that bring in the seekers/buyers

I always try to use the main keywords in my title, and then make sure I use variations and other category-type linking keywords in my description.

I refuse to pay for two categories unless am selling something over $200-300, such as art.

And, totally agree with you, dotcosm! It irks me, too, that people list non-antiques in antiques!

Have even seen some items listed as "antique looking but NEW!" in the antiques category. Arggghhh!

[Vinca]

4. I usually look up similar items that have sold and list my item

in whichever category brought the best price.

[Duer 157099]

5. Right, me too

I sell in those categories, but buy in the other ones :D

I just made another score that way -- I'd post details here if this were a private group, but we're too Googleable :(