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Beyond the Brand: 7 Product Attributes Buyers Search For First (That Resellers Miss)

20 min read
ResellBuzz Team

Let's face it, when you're trying to sell stuff online, whether it's on eBay, Etsy, or your own little shop, it's easy to get caught up in the big names. We all do it. We think, "Oh, it's a Nike shoe, it'll fly off the shelf!" or "This vintage Coach bag will sell itself!" And yeah, brand names *do* carry weight. But here's the thing: focusing *only* on the brand is like showing up to a fancy dinner party in jeans and a t-shirt – you're there, but you're probably missing out on connecting with the right people.

I've learned this lesson the hard way, trust me. There was this one time I had a ton of perfectly good, brand-name hiking gear. I thought, "Great! Easy money." I listed it, slapped the brand names in the title, and then… crickets. It sat there. For weeks. I was scratching my head, wondering what was going on. Then I started looking at *how* people actually search for things online. And it hit me: buyers aren't just looking for "Nike." They're looking for "waterproof hiking boots, men's size 10" or "lightweight camping tent for two people." Big difference, right?

This is where many resellers, myself included at first, totally miss the boat. While we're busy shouting brand names from the rooftops, buyers are quietly typing in what they *really* need. And if your listing doesn't speak their language, they're just going to scroll right on by.

So, let's pull back the curtain on what buyers are *really* looking for. It's not just about the label; it’s about the nitty-gritty details, the stuff that makes a product truly useful to them. And guess what? Highlighting these attributes can seriously boost your sales. According to SEMrush, getting those detailed product descriptions right, with all the juicy features and benefits, can actually make your listings rank higher and bring in more customers. Think of it like this: the more specific and helpful you are, the easier it is for your ideal buyer to find you (semrush.com).

The Nitty-Gritty Details: Beyond Just a Name

Buyers are like detectives these days. They don't just want to know *what* something is; they want to know *everything* about it. They're trying to solve a problem or fulfill a specific need, and your product could be the answer, but only if you spell it out for them.

Here are the attributes that often get overlooked:

  1. Size Matters (A Lot More Than You Think)

    Ever bought something online and it showed up completely different in size than you expected? Yeah, me too. And it's a huge pain. Buyers are constantly searching for specific dimensions – "dresser 48 inches wide," "baby clothes 6-9 months," "rug 8x10." If you're selling clothes, footwear, furniture, or anything with precise measurements, this is your golden ticket. Don't just say "large." Give the actual measurements. Measure twice, list once, folks!

  2. Color Me Sold (Or Not)

    This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how often people just put "blue" when it's clearly "navy blue" or "sky blue" or "teal." Color is a huge deciding factor, especially for fashion, home decor, and even electronics. People have specific color schemes in mind for their homes or outfits. Be precise. "Emerald green," "lemon yellow," "charcoal grey" – these details help buyers visualize the product in their lives.

  3. Material World: What's It Made Of?

    Is that shirt cotton, polyester, or a blend? Is that table solid wood, particle board, or metal? The material tells a buyer a lot about durability, comfort, maintenance, and even ethical considerations. Someone looking for a durable outdoor jacket will want "Gore-Tex" or "waterproof nylon," not just "jacket." This is especially crucial for items like clothing, furniture, and kitchenware. I once sold a vintage wool blanket and made sure to emphasize "100% thick wool" – that detail alone attracted buyers looking for warmth and quality.

  4. Condition is King (Or Queen)

    "Excellent condition," "good used condition," "new with tags" – these phrases are essential. If you're selling pre-owned items, describing the condition accurately is paramount. Don't hide flaws; disclose them clearly and honestly. Buyers appreciate transparency. And trust me, getting a return because you weren't clear about a small scratch is way more work than just mentioning it upfront. A clear description of condition builds trust, and trust builds sales.

  5. Brand Name (But With Context)

    Okay, I know I just talked about moving beyond the brand, but it's still an important attribute. The trick is to use it *with* other attributes, not as the *only* attribute. So, instead of just "Vintage Levi's," think "Vintage Levi's 501 Straight Leg Jeans, Men's W32 L30, Dark Wash, Good Condition." See the difference? The brand name provides instant recognition and a certain level of expected quality or style, but the added details make it irresistible to someone specifically searching for *that exact item*.

  6. Style/Type: Get Specific

    Is it a "mid-century modern dresser"? A "boho maxi dress"? A "minimalist desk lamp"? Specifying the style or type of an item helps buyers quickly identify if it fits their aesthetic or functional needs. Instead of just "dress," try "A-line floral midi dress." This goes for everything from furniture to clothing to electronics accessories. The more specific you are, the more likely you are to connect with someone who’s looking for *exactly* what you have.

  7. Usage Scenario: The Power of "How Will I Use It?"

    This one is a total game-changer, and it's where a lot of resellers truly miss out. Buyers aren't just buying products; they're buying solutions to problems or ways to enhance their lives. This is about painting a picture of how the product will be used. Instead of "tent," think "lightweight 2-person backpacking tent for camping." Instead of "shoes," think "waterproof trail running shoes for muddy hikes."

    A case study from Listing Design showed that an outdoor gear company boosted its organic search traffic by a whopping 30% just by throwing in these "usage scenario" keywords like "waterproof hiking boots" and "lightweight camping tent" (listingdesign.net). This isn't just about throwing a few extra words in; it's about shifting your mindset to think like your buyer. What problem does this product solve? What activity is it perfect for?

Unlock Hidden Sales: How to Leverage 'Usage Scenario' Keywords in Your Listings

Okay, so we've talked about how important those tiny, specific details are. But let's really dig deep into the "usage scenario" keywords because, honestly, these are where the magic happens and where you can really start bringing in buyers who are *ready to buy*. Think about it: when someone types "waterproof hiking boots" into a search bar, they're not just browsing. They've got a hike planned, they know they're going to encounter water, and they need a solution. They're super targeted, and they're probably holding their wallet.

This is something I really had to learn through trial and error. For years, I'd list a jacket, and just call it a "men's jacket." Simple, right? But then I realized, when *I* search for a jacket, I'm thinking, "Do I need something for skiing? For everyday wear? For a fancy dinner?" I'm thinking about *where* and *how* I'm going to use it.

So, I started changing my listings. That "men's jacket" became "men's insulated ski jacket for cold weather," or "men's casual denim jacket for everyday wear." And guess what? My stuff started moving faster. It wasn't rocket science; it was just speaking the buyer's language.

The key here is to step into your buyer's shoes. Imagine them sitting at their computer or tapping away on their phone. What are they *doing*? What problem are they trying to solve? What moment in their life are they trying to improve?

Painting the Picture: Action-Oriented Keywords

Don't just list what your product *is*; show what it *does* and *where* it does it. This is where those usage scenario keywords shine.

Here’s how to brainstorm and integrate them:

  • Think Activities: Is it for hiking, running, swimming, cycling, yoga, camping, fishing, cooking, reading, gardening, gaming, painting, writing?
  • Think Events/Occasions: Is it for a wedding, party, baby shower, graduation, vacation, holiday, picnic, date night, business meeting?
  • Think Environments/Locations: Is it for indoors, outdoors, office, home, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, car, travel, dorm room?
  • Think Problems Solved: Is it to prevent cold, stay organized, save space, make cooking easier, improve sleep, reduce pain, increase productivity?

By integrating these types of phrases, your listing becomes incredibly specific, pulling in buyers who are actively searching for solutions tailored to their very particular needs. It’s like having a giant digital magnet for the *right* kind of customer.

How to Actually Find These Keywords

You might be thinking, "Okay, this sounds great, but how do I figure out what people are actually typing in?" That's where a little detective work comes in, and thankfully, there are tools to help.

  1. Google Autocomplete & "People Also Ask": Start typing a generic product name into Google, and see what suggestions pop up. Google is pretty smart; it uses real search data. For example, type "backpack," and you might see "backpack for school," "backpack for travel," "backpack with laptop compartment." Also, check out the "People Also Ask" section – it's a goldmine of questions your potential buyers are asking.
  2. Google Keyword Planner (and similar tools): This is your best friend for serious keyword research. While SEMrush is a fantastic tool that really digs deep into those detailed product descriptions, even Google's free Keyword Planner can give you insights into search volume for different phrases. You can type in an idea like "hiking boots" and it will suggest related terms, including those valuable usage scenarios. It's a bit more advanced but absolutely worth learning if you're serious about selling.
  3. Competitor Research (Ethically, of course!): See what successful sellers in your niche are doing. How are they describing their products? What kind of keywords are they using in their titles and descriptions? Don't blindly copy, but use it as inspiration to see what's working.
  4. Amazon/eBay Search Suggestions: Just like Google, when you start typing into the search bar on these platforms, they'll often give you suggestions based on popular searches. These are direct insights into how buyers on *those* platforms are looking for things.

Once you have a list of these amazing usage scenario keywords, sprinkle them naturally into your product titles, descriptions, and even bullet points. Don't keyword stuff – make it sound human and helpful. Remember, you're not just listing a product; you're offering a solution, a dream, and a little bit of happiness. And that's how you unlock those hidden sales and really start to resell smarter. Happy listing!

The 'Problem-Solved' Listing: 5 Ways to Write Descriptions That Answer Buyer Needs

Okay, so we've established that buyers are on a mission to find solutions, not just products. And we've talked about how those "usage scenario" keywords can connect you to those problem-solvers. Now, let's take it a step further. What good is connecting with someone if your product description doesn't seal the deal?

Here's the honest truth: most product descriptions are boring. They list features like they’re reading from a spec sheet. "This has X feature, and it's made of Y material." Yawn. Buyers aren't buying features; they're buying *benefits*. They're buying answers to their questions and relief from their pain points.

Think about it from your own experience. When you're looking for something, maybe a new coffee maker, you're not just thinking, "I need a coffee maker." You're thinking, "I need a coffee maker that brews quickly before work," or "I need one that makes a single cup for my morning commute," or "I need one that keeps coffee hot for hours." You're thinking about your life and how this product fits into it and makes it better.

I remember once I was trying to sell a really fancy, high-tech kitchen gadget. I listed all the megapixels and processing power and special modes. And it barely got any views. Then I rewrote the description to focus on *what it could do for the cook*: "Whip up gourmet meals in half the time," "Effortlessly chop, blend, and sauté with one intuitive machine," "Impress your dinner guests with restaurant-quality dishes." Bam! Sales started rolling in. It was the same product, but the message was totally different.

The Online Pursuit puts it perfectly: your product listing should highlight how your product is the "Swiss Army knife of travel gear—versatile, reliable, and equipped for any adventure." That's not just a backpack; that's a solution to travel woes (theonlinepursuit.com).

Here are five ways to craft "problem-solved" listings that turn browsers into buyers:

  1. Identify the Pain Point First:

    Before you even start writing, put yourself in your buyer's shoes. What problem are they struggling with that your product solves? Are they tired of cluttered spaces? Do they struggle with uncomfortable sleep? Are they worried about their phone dying on the go? Start your description by acknowledging that pain point.

    Instead of: "Our vacuum cleaner has strong suction.

    Try: "Tired of stubborn pet hair clinging to your carpets? Our powerful vacuum cleaner tackles even the toughest messes, leaving your floors spotless.

  2. Clearly Articulate the Solution (Your Product's Benefit):

    Once you've hooked them with the problem, immediately pivot to how your product is the hero that swoops in and makes everything better. Focus on the *outcome* the buyer will experience.

    Instead of: "This blender has a 1000-watt motor.

    Try: "Achieve perfectly smooth smoothies and sauces in seconds with our high-powered blender, making healthy eating quick and easy.

  3. Use Engaging and Descriptive Language:

    Don't just tell; *show*. Use vivid words that appeal to emotions and senses. Help the buyer imagine themselves using the product and experiencing the positive results.

    Instead of: "This shirt is soft.

    Try: "Indulge in luxurious comfort with our ultra-soft, breathable cotton shirt that feels like a second skin, perfect for all-day wear.

  4. Back Up Claims with Features (The "How It Works" Part):

    Once you've sold them on the benefit, then you can introduce the features that make those benefits possible. This gives your claims credibility. It’s like, "Here's the amazing outcome, and here's exactly *how* this product delivers it.

    Example (connecting problem/solution/feature): "Struggling to keep your coffee hot on your commute? Our insulated travel mug keeps your beverage piping hot for up to 6 hours, thanks to its double-walled vacuum-sealed design.

  5. Call to Action (Subtly, or Not So Subtly):

    While "Buy Now!" is a direct call to action, you can also embed softer calls to action within your problem-solved descriptions. Encourage them to imagine.

    Example: "Imagine waking up refreshed and ready to conquer your day – our orthopedic pillow makes that a reality. Add it to your cart and experience the difference.

Resell Smarter: 7 'Before & After' Keywords That Convert Browsers to Buyers

Alright, let's keep this momentum going! We’ve talked about finding the right buyers with specific attributes, and then convincing them with problem-solving descriptions. Now, let’s add another powerful arrow to your quiver: "before & after" keywords.

Think about it: what are people *really* looking for when they buy something? They're looking for change. They want to go from cluttered to organized, from tired to energetic, from plain to stylish. They want a transformation. The "before & after" approach taps into that fundamental human desire for improvement. It’s about showing, not just telling, the *impact* your product has.

I used this strategy big time when I was selling a bunch of vintage furniture that needed a little TLC. Instead of just saying "Chair," I'd list it as "Vintage Chair – Transformed with Fresh Upholstery, Ready to Modernize Your Space." Or for clothing, "Dated Dress? Revitalize Your Wardrobe with This Timeless Piece." It wasn't just about the item; it was about the *potential* and the *result*.

This isn't about magical thinking; it's about making the benefits of your product tangible. When you use keywords that hint at a "before" state and promise an "after" reality, you create a narrative that buyers can relate to. They see themselves in the "before" and envision themselves in the "after."

Here are 7 "before & after" keyword concepts you can weave into your listings to convert more browsers into buyers:

  1. "Transform Your..." / "New Look"

    This is all about visual or functional change. Think about items that *fundamentally change* an appearance or space.

    Before: "Old sofa"

    After: "Transform your living room with this modern, comfortable sofa.

    Keywords: "Transform," "New Look," "Update," "Revitalize," "Modernize"

  2. "Say Goodbye to..." / "Eliminate..."

    This targets pain points directly, showing how the product removes a negative experience.

    Before: "Cluttered desk"

    After: "Say goodbye to desk clutter with this sleek organizer, making your workspace efficient and tidy.

    Keywords: "Say goodbye to," "Eliminate," "No more," "End your struggle," "Free yourself from"

  3. "Achieve..." / "Experience..."

    This focuses on aspirational outcomes and the positive feelings associated with the product.

    Before: "Low energy"

    After: "Achieve peak performance and sustained energy throughout your day with our premium vitamin blend.

    Keywords: "Achieve," "Experience," "Unlock," "Discover," "Enjoy"

  4. "From [Problem] to [Solution]"

    This provides a straightforward, direct narrative of how the product fixes a specific issue.

    Before: "Tired skin"

    After: "Go from tired, dull skin to a radiant, youthful glow with our hydrating serum.

    Keywords: "From dull to radiant," "From messy to organized," "From cramped to spacious," "From discomfort to relief"

  5. "Upgrade Your..." / "Enhance Your..."

    This implies an improvement from an existing, less desirable state to a better one.

    Before: "Standard car interior"

    After: "Upgrade your daily commute with our luxurious leather seat covers, enhancing comfort and style.

    Keywords: "Upgrade," "Enhance," "Improve," "Elevate," "Boost"

  6. "Pre-owned but [Like New / Restored]"

    For resellers, this is golden. It addresses the "before" (used item) and highlights the "after" (its restored or excellent state).

    Before: "Used phone"

    After: "Pre-owned iPhone XR, meticulously restored to like-new condition, offering premium performance without the new phone price.

    Keywords: "Restored," "Refurbished," "Like New," "Gently Used," "Mint Condition" (used appropriately!)

  7. "Before You Know It..." / "In Minutes..."

    This focuses on efficiency and time-saving transformations.

    Before: "Long cooking times"

    After: "Prepare delicious, healthy meals in minutes with our multi-function air fryer – you'll be enjoying perfectly cooked food before you know it.

    Keywords: "In minutes," "Effortlessly," "Quickly," "Instantly," "Simple steps to"

Deconstruct the Deal: The Top 5 'Deal-Seeking' Keywords Buyers Use for Bargains

Okay, so we've covered how to attract buyers who are looking for specific attributes, how to speak to their usage scenarios, how to solve their problems, and how to promise a transformation. Now, let’s talk about a huge segment of the online shopping world: the deal-seekers. These are the folks who go into every search with "discount" or "sale" already rattling around in their brains.

And let’s be real, who doesn't love a good deal? I sure do! I've spent countless hours scouring the internet for those hidden gems, that perfect something at a price that makes me feel like I won the lottery. And guess what? I type in "clearance," "bargain," "discount" – all those magic words.

Many resellers are hesitant to use these terms unless they're running a massive sale. But here's the secret: you don't always have to be giving something away for free to pique the interest of a deal-seeker. Sometimes, just *including* the words can trigger that "ooh, a deal!" response, especially if your everyday pricing is competitive. It's about being visible to this specific type of shopper.

Buyers are actively searching for bargains, using terms like "discount," "sale," "clearance," "bargain," and "offer" (your research mentions this). If you're not using these terms (when appropriate, of course), you're missing out on a significant chunk of the market. After all, if someone types "discount smart watch" and your smart watch listing doesn't use the word "discount," you're probably not going to show up in their results, even if your watch *is* technically on sale.

Here are the top 5 'deal-seeking' keywords to consider for your listings:

  1. "Sale"

    This is the big one, the classic. If your item truly is marked down, use this word prominently. But even if it's not a deep discount, if you offer, say, 5% off, you can legitimately call it a "sale.

    Example: "Spring Sale! Lightweight Hiking Backpack - Don't Miss Out!" or "Limited Time Sale: Vintage Levi's Jeans.

    Strategic Use: Best used when you have a genuine price reduction. Can also be used for bundle deals (e.g., "Buy One Get One 50% Off Sale">

  2. "Discount"

    Similar to "sale," "discount" implies a reduction from the original price. It's a slightly more formal term than "sale" sometimes, but it hits the same psychological trigger.

    Example: "Exclusive Discount: New Yoga Mat for Your Home Workouts." or "Bulk Discount Available: Purchase 3 & Save!"

    Strategic Use: Good for percentage-off deals, or even for highlighting that your price is already better than retail (e.g., "Retail Value $100, Our Discounted Price $75">

  3. "Clearance"

    This word suggests urgency and scarcity. It often implies that items are being sold off to make room for new inventory. People jump on clearance items because they know they might not be around for long.

    Example: "Clearance Event! Last Chance for These Designer Sunglasses." or "Winter Gear Clearance: Unbeatable Prices!

    Strategic Use: Perfect for end-of-season items, inventory you want to move quickly, or discontinued products.

  4. "Bargain"

    This keyword speaks directly to the savvy shopper who loves finding a great value. It's less about a specific price reduction and more about the *perceived value* for the money.

    Example: "Brand New Condition Men's Watch - A True Bargain!" or "Find Your Next Bargain: Vintage Home Decor.

    Strategic Use: Useful for items that are priced exceptionally well given their quality or rarity, even if they're not explicitly "on sale.

  5. "Offer"

    "Offer" is a versatile term. It can suggest a special deal ("limited time offer"), or simply imply that you're open to negotiation (if your platform allows it, like "Make an Offer" on eBay). It creates a sense of engagement.

    Example: "Special Offer: Free Shipping on All Orders This Week!" or "Vintage Collectible Toy - Open to Reasonable Offers.

    Strategic Use: For promotions like free shipping, bundled deals, or if you're truly open to receiving offers on certain items.

Bringing It All Together

So, there you have it. We started with the idea that brand names aren't the be-all and end-all, and we've gone deep into what buyers *really* search for: specific attributes like size, color, and material. We've explored the power of "usage scenario" keywords to attract targeted buyers with real problems to solve. Then, we learned how to write "problem-solved" descriptions that speak directly to buyer needs, and how "before & after" keywords can literally paint a picture of transformation. Finally, we looked at how those "deal-seeking" keywords can reel in the bargain hunters.

I've made my share of mistakes in reselling. Listing something vaguely, hoping it'll just magically sell because it's a good item. Trust me, it doesn't work that way. The online marketplace is a noisy place, and you need to cut through that noise.

My personal "aha!" moment came when I started treating every listing like a little conversation with a potential buyer. Instead of just pushing a product, I asked myself, "If I were looking for this, what would I type? What problem would I need it to solve? How would I want my life to change after I bought it?

It's not about being a marketing guru overnight. It's about empathy. It's about understanding your audience and giving them the information they crave, in the language they use. So, next time you're listing an item, take a moment. Put yourself in their scrolling finger. Think beyond the brand. Think about the details, the scenarios, the problems, the transformations, and yes, even the deals.

Because when you do that, you're not just selling products. You're selling solutions, dreams, and a little bit of happiness. And that, my friend, is how you unlock those hidden sales and really start to resell smarter. Happy listing!

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