Cash Out Your Clutter

GET GOING ON YOUR GOALS

So, it’s been about two months since you fervently made your New Year’s resolutions for 2019. Did those resolutions include getting organized and making more money? If so, you can accomplish two goals in one by turning your clutter into cash.

Not only does cleaning and clearing your space help declutter and organize your environment but, according to experts, it also helps bring clarity to your mind and a sense of peace and satisfaction to your well-being.

Make it a goal to handle the stuff you have, decide what to do with it, and then follow through with it.

ONE THING AT A TIME

Think in terms of assessing and reflecting on the items in one room at a time, one closet at a time, or one drawer or shelf at a time.

Here’s where you can look for clutter to clean and clear:

Shelves, drawers, closets, attics, basements, garages, other areas throughout house, and storage facilities.

BENEFITS TO BOAST

Although it can be a daunting task to declutter your household and make money off of some of your findings, the benefits are many.

It can involve some hard work, but it can also be a good workout. Plus, anything you sell is extra cash in your pockets!

You can stir up good memories by going through old belongings, and sharing the experience with family and friends can be a nostalgic and memorable time. Family stories may emerge that you want to record and reflect on.

TACKLE THE TASK

Tackle the task by breaking it down into bite-sized pieces. Sort, prep and sell.

First, decide what you will keep, sell, donate or give away.

You may want to set categories of stuff into piles or put things into separate bags or boxes to keep them separated.

To determine what to hold and hang onto, and what to let go of, consider answering a few questions. Does this item have a worthwhile use? Does it make me happy? Does it have sentimental value and, if so, how much?

CHUCK IT OR CASH IT

Gauge an item’s potential. Do a simple check before you chuck it. Is this something I would consider buying, or would it be better to give it away or just toss? If possible, consider reselling because getting something is better than nothing.

Also, consider the condition your things are in. Are they outdated or out of style?

It’s good news that most charities aren’t too picky. Usually, they are grateful for clothes in serviceable condition, even if they aren’t trendy.

Consignment stores, which pay you a portion of the selling price when an item is purchased, are more selective and can be picky about wearable items they accept.

Clean and press all clothing you have decided to resell, so it is in the best condition and as appealing as possible.

RULES OF ONLINE RESELLING

To prep items that are in good condition for resale, be sure to do your research. Check what’s available online that matches the exact item or something similar and make note of the prices and where it’s sold.

Shipping can be costly, so be sure to factor that expense into your selling price. You’ll need clean packing materials. Try to include instructions and original product guides, if available.

So, where can you go to sell or donate items?

  • Garage sales and yard sales
  • Flea markets and pawn shops
  • Consignment and resale stores
  • Buy/sell groups on social media sites such as Facebook
  • Sites: eBid, eBay, Bonanza, Etsy, Poshmark, Thredup, Craigslist
  • Apps: LetGo, 5miles, Gone, Offer Up, Dealo, SocialSell, NextDoor, Listia, Carousell

Stick close to home and sell your items locally, or go global and sell online to a worldwide market.

TIPS AND TIDBITS FOR RESELLING

  • Involve your loved ones and spread the word
  • Make your listing honest, specific and professional for best results
  • Write well and double check your copy
  • Take clear photographs in front of a solid white background to minimize distractions
  • Show the item in use to make the item stand out from the competition
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