Finding profitable items to sell on online auctions can be a frustrating process for some people. Your auction site business depends on selling items that are in demand, yet can be sold for a substantial profit online. If you're having difficulty finding items online for your auction business, here are some worthwhile tips.

• One of the simplest ways to get new ideas is to check out the auction sites. See what items are in demand by searching Ebay. You can quickly find which products are in demand, how much they're selling for, and the average price they are sold at. Using Ebay is probably the easiest and quickest way to discover great products that already have a thriving market. Ebay can be one of your sources of product too. Check out the 'wholesale' and 'large lots" area of the site.

• Don't forget to check out auction site forums and message boards. Here many people talk about which products are hot... and not.

• If you live in a large town or city, check out local auctions you can attend. Look in your local newspaper or check online to find times and locations.

• Check your local newspaper for 'going out of business' sales. Stores often slash prices up to 90% before closing up for good.

• Obviously garage sales and flea markets can be great for finding saleable items. Be sure to arrive early for the best selection.

• Consider buying larger items. Although hard to sell and ship, a larger item (working or not), can often be disassembled and the component parts sold for more than the whole.