Created: 5/11/2009 4:15:44 PM 
JACKSONVILLE, FL -- If you are looking to unload a high-ticket item for some extra cash, Trent Barry may just have the formula to sell it for you.
It could be a timeless family heirloom, or an intricately carved end table. For the past decade Barry has been selling items online for customers around town and around the world.
"The most enjoyable thing is my own personal learning," said Barry from the den of his Jacksonville home that doubles as his office and 'world headquarters.'
"Helping the people that have to turn something in this economy into some money to pay the electric bill, and that old watch will do it," said Barry.
But selling someone's family heirloom carries a sense of responsibility.
"I never lose sight of the fact that it's theirs," said Barry.
"I really try to work with them and realistically help them find a price that's going to sell that (their item)."
Barry says most folks can take a hard look around their own homes to find things they no longer need that could fetch a hefty sales price in some cases. That is why his phone is ringing more than ever.
"I've been mostly busy because of the economy itself. People are constantly thinking about, 'Man that old boat is sitting, it's no use to me. I need to sell it!'"
Barry deals primarily in higher-ticket items on eBay and a dozen other online auction sites.
"Wherever my client gets the most money."
He also deals in firearms and medical equipment, which are forbidden to be sold on eBay.
"So I'll go to a website that does allow the sale."
Barry says in an online auction world, presentation is the key to success. He says it is important to learn a few steps to make the online ad look professional.
"It's easy enough for anybody to go on the internet to make it look even classier."
By adjusting the exposure on a ten-year-old camera, Barry demonstrated how a photo taken in a simple backyard studio can render a museum-like feel to what is presented online.
"It's just underexposed by a half-stop," said Barry, looking at a phot of a porcelain angel.
"God's light is the best light!"
Barry told First Coast News he regularly attends auctions looking for unusual collections, which he says are more profitable selling-off one piece at a time.
"I didnt wake up one morning and know about Lennox ware. I didn't wake up one morning and know about Carnival Glass. Each time I do something I learn more and more and more," said Barry.
And he smiles when he says if the deal is worthy - no length is too far to go in order to close the sale.
"I'll get on a plane or fly over in a blimp if I think it's worthwhile!
Trent Barry can be reached at isunu@comcast.net or by phone at 904-743-8017.
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