Second Hand Trains & Second Hand Model Train Hobby Supplies - Are They Worth Buying?

I am often asked what a second hand locomotive is worth. My answer is always the same - it is worth what someone is prepared to pay.

A quick search of auction sites like eBay and you’ll see a range of model train hobby supplies and model trains for sale second hand. The big question is; are they worth buying?

Recommendation: There is an excellent section about buying and selling secondhand trains in Robert Anderson’s ebook. If you haven’t yet done so, make sure you grab Robert Anderson’s excellent Model Train Help ebook. You’ll find it extremely useful!

Unfortunately, there is no clear answer and the ‘buyer beware’ rule applies. However, in saying that, I recently bought a second hand loco off eBay for a tenth of the price of a new one (it was in “as new” condition).

Model Trains For Sale Second Hand Worth Careful Consideration

A lot model railroading enthusiasts have stuff sitting around in boxes for years until they eventually decide to sell it off. The good thing is that most of us in the hobby are very careful with our model trains, so the model trains for sale second hand are often in very good condition. That’s not to say you won’t ever buy a dud!

Also, be aware that many of the model train hobby supplies for sale on sites like eBay are brand new (not second hand). So, you can sometimes buy train supplies cheaper online than from a model train hobby supply store (although you may not get the expert knowledge and back up service).

If you are going to buy second hand train supplies, ask the seller a lot of probing questions and thoroughly do your homework to avoid buying something that doesn’t work properly.

Tips For Advertising Your Model Trains For Sale Second Hand

If you want to sell some model trains (or model train supplies), start by asking the members of your local model railroad club, BEFORE you spend any money on advertising. Some hobby shops even trade in second hand trains. You could even research recent sales on eBay to get a guide to pricing.

Swap Or Trade Model Trains

Another idea is to swap, or trade, model trains and supplies with others in the hobby. You might not want to give them your best locomotive, but you could trade your skills and experience.

Why not help out constructing a bridge in return for something someone else has, or something they can do for you?

I guess what I am really saying is; you don’t need to pay retail for every train or train accessory you want. Get to know others in the hobby, do some trading, share ideas and help each other out.

Model railroading is a wonderful hobby… and we are all in this together.

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