Selling event tickets can be a smart way to recoup costs or even turn a profit—especially when demand exceeds supply. But with so many platforms available, choosing the right one isn’t always straightforward. Reddit has become a go-to hub for real user experiences, and fans across subreddits like r/TicketExchange, r/Concerts, and r/Sneakers regularly share honest feedback about where they’ve had the most success. Drawing from thousands of threads, verified seller reviews, and community consensus, this guide breaks down the top platforms, insider strategies, and red flags to avoid when selling tickets online.
Top Platforms Recommended by Reddit Users
Reddit communities are known for their transparency and skepticism, making their recommendations particularly valuable. Based on recurring discussions and upvoted suggestions, several platforms consistently rise to the top when users debate where to sell tickets safely and efficiently.
- StubHub: Praised for its buyer protection and ease of use, StubHub is frequently cited as a reliable option for concerts and sports events. Sellers appreciate the guaranteed payout, even if the ticket doesn’t sell.
- Vivid Seats: Known for competitive commission rates and strong customer service, Vivid Seats is favored in r/TicketExchange for last-minute sales and high-demand events.
- SeatGeek: Popular among younger users for its clean interface and mobile app. Reddit users note that SeatGeek’s resale algorithm often results in faster sales compared to competitors.
- Facebook Marketplace: A favorite for local, no-fee transactions. Many users report success selling concert or festival passes within hours by targeting nearby buyers.
- eBay: Less common but still used for rare or collectible tickets (e.g., Super Bowl, opening night Broadway). The auction model allows price discovery based on true demand.
What Reddit Fans Say About Safety and Scams
One of the biggest concerns when selling tickets is avoiding scams. Reddit threads are filled with cautionary tales—from fake payment screenshots to phishing links disguised as “buyer verification.” However, experienced sellers offer consistent advice on how to stay protected.
In r/TicketExchange, a popular rule of thumb is: “If it feels off, it probably is.” Users emphasize using only official resale platforms or secure peer-to-peer methods like PayPal Goods & Services (never Friends & Family) for added dispute protection.
“Always wait for cleared funds. I once shipped a $600 pair too early because the buyer sent a ‘confirmation’ email from a spoofed address. Learned the hard way.” — u/ConcertHunter22, r/TicketExchange moderator
Another common warning involves third-party resellers who ask for screenshots of tickets before payment. Reddit users unanimously advise against this practice. Instead, they recommend waiting for full payment and using tracking features whenever possible.
Step-by-Step Guide to Selling Tickets Successfully
Based on successful case studies shared on Reddit, here’s a proven process for maximizing returns and minimizing risk:
- Determine market value: Use tools like SeatGeek’s pricing chart or StubHub’s recent sale history to set a competitive price.
- Choose your platform: Match the event type to the best marketplace (e.g., Facebook for local gigs, StubHub for major tours).
- List early—but not too early: Post between 2–6 weeks before the event. Too early, and interest is low; too late, and buyers may have already purchased.
- Write a clear description: Include section, row, seat numbers, view details, and whether parking or merch is included.
- Respond promptly: Fast communication increases conversion. Set notifications on your phone for new messages.
- Ship securely: Use tracked shipping with signature confirmation for physical tickets. For digital, deliver only after payment clears.
- Leave feedback: On platforms that allow it, build credibility by reviewing buyers.
Comparison of Top Ticket Resale Platforms
| Platform | Commission Fee | Payout Time | Best For | Reddit User Rating (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| StubHub | 15%–20% | 3–5 business days | Sports, concerts, theater | ⭐ 4.3 |
| Vivid Seats | 10%–15% | 2–4 business days | Last-minute sales | ⭐ 4.5 |
| SeatGeek | 10%–18% | 3–7 business days | Younger audiences, tech-savvy sellers | ⭐ 4.2 |
| Facebook Marketplace | 0% | Instant (cash meetups) | Local events, small venues | ⭐ 4.0 |
| eBay | 12.9% + $0.30 | Varies (PayPal dependent) | Rare or vintage tickets | ⭐ 3.8 |
Real Example: How One Redditor Made $1,200 on Sold-Out Festival Tickets
In a widely upvoted post on r/Festivals, user u/RaveReliever shared how they turned four unused camping passes for Electric Forest into a $1,200 profit. They bought the tickets early at face value ($250 each) but couldn’t attend due to a family emergency. After researching resale trends, they listed them on Vivid Seats three weeks before the event.
The key to their success? Bundling. Instead of selling individually, they marketed the tickets as a “full group camp setup” with matching entry times and proximity to shuttles. They included photos of the original purchase receipt and site map highlights. Within 48 hours, they received multiple offers and accepted one for $300 per ticket.
“I didn’t just list tickets—I sold an experience,” they wrote. “People were looking for friends to go with, and I made it easy.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Tickets
Even experienced sellers make errors that cost time and money. Based on recurring warnings in Reddit forums, here are the most frequent missteps:
- Overpricing without data: Setting prices above market rate leads to listings expiring unsold.
- Ignoring mobile optimization: Most buyers use apps. Listings with poor formatting or missing images get overlooked.
- Using unverified platforms: Sites like Craigslist or Kijiji may seem convenient, but lack buyer/seller protections.
- Failing to confirm delivery method: Digital tickets require email access on event day—clarify this upfront.
- Not checking event refund policies: Some events cancel tickets if resold, especially university sports or private shows.
FAQ: What Reddit Users Ask Most Often
Can I get in trouble for reselling tickets?
In most cases, no—ticket resale is legal unless prohibited by the event organizer or local laws (e.g., some states limit markup amounts). Always review the terms of service when purchasing. Reddit users stress that transparency with buyers reduces legal and reputational risk.
What’s the fastest way to sell a ticket?
According to r/TicketExchange consensus, listing on multiple platforms simultaneously speeds up sales. Cross-posting to SeatGeek, StubHub, and Facebook increases exposure. However, remember to deactivate listings once sold to avoid conflicts.
Should I accept partial payments or holds?
No. Reddit sellers strongly advise against “holding” tickets or accepting deposits. Demand full payment before releasing any information. As one user put it: “No money, no ticket. Every time.”
Final Checklist Before You List
- ✅ Verify ticket ownership and transferability
- Confirm you can legally resell and that the platform supports transfers.
- ✅ Research comparable sales
- Check recent sold prices on SeatGeek or StubHub for similar seats.
- ✅ Choose the right platform
- Match your ticket type to the most active marketplace.
- ✅ Write a detailed, honest listing
- Mention obstructed views, noise levels, or stairs if applicable.
- ✅ Set a competitive starting price
- Aim slightly below average to attract quick bids or offers.
- ✅ Monitor messages daily
- Fast replies increase trust and close rates.
Conclusion: Take Action with Confidence
Finding the best place to sell tickets isn’t about chasing the highest headline price—it’s about choosing the right platform, timing, and strategy based on real user insights. Reddit fans have spent years testing options, sharing wins, and warning others about pitfalls. By tapping into that collective wisdom, you can sell smarter, safer, and more profitably.
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