Dear Lee:

We get calls from friends and readers all the time asking what to do with items that their families don’t want or need any longer. The good news is that decluttering can present an opportunity for profit. 

Remember, when you go to sell household goods, time is money. The more time you are willing to invest, the more will come in return. When you’re considering an auction, garage sale, local dealer, website or Facebook marketplace, decide how much time you are willing to invest first. 

Condition, quality, designer and manufacturer matter. You can’t even give away a regular sofa if it is stained or damaged. Most people won’t take mattresses and state law frequently doesn’t allow it. Some charities whose mission includes providing new homes for people in need may take mattresses if they are in clean and like-new condition. 

Furniture made by well-known designers or manufacturers—and even well-made furniture in the style of well-known designers—can be sold at auction. If the item is generic furniture from a big-box store, it’s best to give it away or sell it yourself. Same with household items: mugs, glasses, dishes and trays or other pieces designed by well-known designers or made by top manufacturers will sell at auction. Mass-produced, less expensive items are hard to sell.  

Jewelry that is gold, platinum or made with precious stones always sells for at least the material cost and it should be easy to find a buyer. As with everything else, “brand” adds value. If it was made by Tiffany, Cartier or another top brand, you can expect to get more. However, if the piece is monogramed you will likely need to sell it for meltdown value.  

Handbags and other leather goods are hot right now, but only those from the top brands—Hermès, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci, among others. Secondary brands like Kate Spade simply don’t sell as well and you may need to consider donation or try to sell it yourself. 

The brand situation is the same for sunglasses. And if there is a prescription in the glasses, buyers do not want to pay the extra expense to change the lenses. 

Good luck! And we’re not forgetting—Happy Mother’s Day! 

 

gucci boston bag

The Gucci Boston Bag with the distinctive
green-red-green stripe.

 

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