PlaybookBack to modules

How to Spot Profitable Items

A 60-second framework to decide if something is worth buying. Fast to scan, easy to repeat before every purchase.

View slides Run profit math

Key move

What profitable really means

Profit = sale price - fees - shipping - cost - time. Margin matters, but so does speed.
Liquidity beats peak price. Fast turns keep cash moving.
Avoid “I just want to move it” thinking—decide your floor before you buy.

Key move

The 60-second check

Search StockX/GOAT: last sale, lowest ask, and number of sales in last 30 days.
Scan bid-ask spread: tight spread = healthier liquidity.
Condition reality check: any flaws that will force a discount?

Key move

Green flags

Consistent sales volume (daily/weekly), not just one spike.
Stable or rising price trend with modest undercutting.
Models and sizes popular in your region (men’s 8-12 core sizes, or key women’s/GS sizes).

Key move

Red flags / bricks

No recent sales or a wide spread with few bids.
Undercutting wars; asks collapsing day over day.
Random colorways with low search interest; hype already cooled.

Key move

Action steps (do these today)

Run 3 items you own through the 60-second check and log bid/ask and last sale.
Define a buy box: minimum margin, minimum monthly sales volume, maximum hold time.
Skip any item that fails liquidity + margin together, even if the headline price looks good.

Next module

Negotiate with Stores

Scripts and counters that keep relationships healthy.