How to Sell Broadway Tickets

Selling Broadway tickets can be a straightforward process, but it requires careful consideration of various platforms and strategies to ensure a successful transaction. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

Introduction

Broadway shows are an exciting part of New York City’s cultural landscape. Sometimes, due to unforeseen circumstances, you may need to sell your Broadway tickets. Whether it’s last-minute changes, double bookings, or simply a change of plans, knowing how to resell your Broadway tickets efficiently and safely is essential. This article will guide you through different methods and platforms for selling Broadway tickets, along with tips to make the process smoother and more secure.

Platforms for Selling Broadway Tickets

There are several platforms where you can sell your Broadway tickets, each with its unique features and requirements:

1. Facebook Marketplace: It’s an easy and free platform, though less popular for Broadway tickets. It offers more reliability and local reach.
2. TicketsNow: Requires physical possession of tickets before listing. They charge a 15% sales transaction fee.
3. eBay: A long-standing marketplace for Broadway tickets. They charge a “final value fee,” typically 9% of the sale price for auction-style listings. The buy-now option can lead to faster sales but may yield slightly less revenue.
4. Craigslist: Ideal for selling at 100% of the sale price as there are no sales commissions. However, it lacks the protection of other services and has a reputation for unreliable buyers and a prevalence of fake tickets.
5. Ticket Brokers: Selling directly to ticket brokers is an option, especially for sold-out shows or if you’re willing to sell at a low price.
6. Charity Donation: Donating tickets to charities like the Ronald McDonald House in NYC can be rewarding, though you may not receive a monetary return.

Selling Tips

When selling Broadway tickets, consider the following:

• Pricing Strategy: Price your tickets based on demand and date. Hot items or tickets for coveted dates can be priced higher. Be realistic and consider how quickly you want to sell versus the desired return.

• Dealing with Commission: Most online platforms take a cut from your sales. For example, StubHub or TicketsNow charges about a 15% commission. eBay has final value fees. If avoiding commissions is crucial, Craigslist can be a better option, but it lacks the security features of other platforms​​​.
• Fulfillment Considerations: Think about how you’ll deliver the tickets to the buyer. E-tickets are convenient but may attract additional fees for the buyer. For physical tickets, consider safe and secure delivery methods​​.

Safety and Security Measures

When selling tickets, especially in a peer-to-peer setting, safety and security are paramount:

• Secure Platforms: Use platforms with security features, like encryption for data protection.
• Meet in Public: If exchanging physical tickets, choose well-lit, public places for the exchange.
• Verify Buyer’s Details: Conduct a basic background check, like viewing their social media profiles, to ascertain their authenticity.

• Verify Buyer’s Details: Conduct a basic background check, like viewing their social media profiles, to ascertain their authenticity.
• Never Share Personal Information: Keep your details, like your address and bank information, confidential. Use secure payment methods like PayPal.
• Document Everything: Maintain records of all communications and transactions to safeguard against potential disputes​.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

When selling tickets, it’s important to stay within legal and ethical boundaries:

• Know Local Laws: Be aware of regulations regarding ticket scalping or selling above face value in your area.
• Transparency: Clearly state all ticket details, including seat location and date, to avoid misleading buyers.
• Ethical Pricing: While tempting, consider the implications of selling tickets at significantly higher prices. Aim for reasonable markups.
• Counterfeit Tickets: Ensure that the tickets you’re selling are genuine to avoid legal troubles​​.

Conclusion

Selling Broadway tickets can be a lucrative endeavor if done correctly. You can successfully navigate the resale market by choosing the right platform, pricing your tickets appropriately, and taking necessary safety and security measures. Always stay informed about legal and ethical considerations to ensure a smooth and fair transaction process.

Finally, remember to tailor your selling strategy to your specific circumstances and goals, whether that’s a quick sale, maximizing your return, or simply transferring your tickets to someone who can enjoy the show.