It’s a daunting task to look around and see all of the things in your home that aren’t loved/wanted/needed and wonder “How do I get rid of it?”. It’s easy to trash something, but I’m here to tell you, there is a better way – for you and the planet. Keep your antiques, collectibles and curios out of a landfill and turn them into cash! But, where to start?
There are many factors in deciding where and how to sell your item – what you decide will ultimately affect how much money is in your pocket!
Here are a few ways to cash in on your unwanted things:
1. Sell on eBay, Poshmark or another online platform.
These platforms exist for a reason – people use them! Almost anything can be sold on eBay, but determining if your item will have the greatest success on eBay, is a little trickier. As a general rule, items that can reach the largest targeted audience will have the best result. For example, are buyers of a 4-carat diamond ring usually on eBay or at auction? Do buyers of vintage stamps shop more on eBay or at auction? And, how do you know what to price your item? Remember, you have to price your own item if you use an online platform for selling.
e-ValueIt can take the guesswork out of selling online. We can help you determine where to sell your item and for how much.
2. Sell through an auction house.
There are many advantages to selling at auction, one of which is that a lot of the guesswork is taken out. Experts identify, estimate and advertise your item. You do pay for these services though. Auction houses charge the seller up to 25% of the sale price for their services, in addition to photography and advertising fees. You also sell on their timeline. The auction house determines when the item will be sold, and after the sale, you have to wait for the check. From the beginning of the selling process with an auction house, until the money is in your account, can take 8 weeks, at a minimum.
e-ValueIt has appraisers on staff who have worked for major auction houses in the U.K., Europe and America. We give you access to these professionals, without any obligation to sell with us.
3. Sell on consignment.
Consignment shops and pawn brokers can sell your furniture, jewelry, clothes, and other items. They price the item, but they also take a considerable portion of the sale price, sometimes, up to 40%! Selling on consignment is not recommended if you need money fast. Consignment shops typically do not give you any money until your item sells, which could be a year or more. Pawn brokers operate differently and will buy your item outright, but remember, they are looking to make a profit. What they pay for your item isn’t exactly what it’s worth.
Whatever avenue you take to sell your item, we recommend you START with an appraisal. Knowing the fair market and replacement values of your antique, collectible or jewelry will help you make the best possible choice when it comes to selling.
