Marketplace

How do I set up an online marketplace?

Hey, I was wondering what legal factors I have to look into to start my own online marketplace. It will just be a fixed price system where people can put their own items on to sell. What terms and conditions should I use, is there a template ? Also, what protection can paypal offer? Thanks.

Hi,

Most online market place or directory sites have a legal disclaimer (also called a Terms of Use) page. If you’re just going to be the venue for others to sell and buy, let your online viewers know that up front in a clear, concise, visible manner.

Many website systems are available to handle your business idea, including adding in the PayPal integration. PayPal offers buyer and seller protection services…you can view the link I’ve supplied in references below.

Here’s just a few of the items you’d need to get started.
- choose an appropriate domain name
- web hosting – I only recommend GoDaddy or HostGator as they are the best and most reliable.
- a content management system to handle grabbing and displaying your sellers listings
- gather your thoughts about what other pages/content you’d like to have on the site (like: about us, privacy policy, terms of use, contact us, etc.)
- setup your PayPal business account and link it with a bank account for transfers

There’s more task items that go into this…but this is a good start. Please feel free to respond back with any additional questions. I’ll try to help answer.

Have a great day