Even the tidiest person generates trash that clutters the house. From old computer monitors to that old dining room table, we fill our homes with all the stuff that overwhelms us. But how can we profit from all these old items? Here are some tips for turning trash into cash.
Benefits of Decluttering
Decluttering your home can have numerous benefits beyond just making extra cash. By getting rid of unwanted items, you can reduce stress and anxiety related to clutter, free up space in your home, and develop a more intentional relationship with money. Decluttering can also help you focus on what’s truly important and reduce feelings of overwhelm. Additionally, decluttering can help you save money by reducing waste, canceling subscriptions, and avoiding duplicate purchases.
1. Identify Sellable Items
Identifying sellable items is a crucial step in the decluttering process. Start by going through each room in your home and sorting items into categories. Ask yourself questions like “Do I love this?”, “Have I used this item in the last 12 months?”, and “Would I buy this again today?” to help you decide what to keep and what to sell. Consider the condition, rarity, and demand for each item to determine its potential value. You can also research items online to see what similar items are selling for on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace.
2. Know a "Resale Price" and "Price Paid" are Different
What you paid for an item and what you can sell it for are two different things. Clutter on the dining table can contribute to stress and anxiety, making it essential to declutter for a more relaxing environment. If you bought the item new, its price will probably have gone down. But if you bought the item used, it might be the same or even worth more. Do the research and see if your item has depreciated or increased in value.
3. Research Brands
An item is valued based on the reputation of the brand. Some brands hold their value. If you have an older watch, look up the brand and see what it’s going for in today’s market. It might have appreciated. It’s also important to know what brands are going out of style so that you can discount. Conducting a little research before listing items for sale online can help set realistic expectations and navigate the online marketplace effectively.
4. Find the Right Potential Buyers
Not all selling platforms are alike when it comes to your used product. If you have a designer bag it might be best to sell it on PoshMark rather than eBay. People are going to PoshMark specifically to find designer items. Consider it the corner boutique. If you want to sell home décor, you wouldn’t go to PoshMark but AptDeco might be the right destination. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to the selling platform, and choosing the right one can help you make more money from your items.
5. Inspect and Clean Items
Make sure the goods you are selling are in good condition. You can’t sell broken items. Send those to the trash bin. When you decide to sell an item that’s in good condition, ensure it’s clean. Nobody wants to get a soiled blouse or dusty home décor. Valuable items from reputable brands can fetch higher prices on platforms like Etsy or eBay.
6. Be Ready to Negotiate for Extra Cash
List your item for a little more than what you truly want for it. This leaves room for negotiation. People like to think they’re getting a deal. Using a great platform like PoshMark or other selling platforms can help you reach potential buyers quickly. If you see the price scaring off potential buyers, you can always drop it later.
7. Take Numerous Good Photos
Take photos of all angles and lots of them. If there’s an imperfection, make sure you take a picture of it too. The buyer should know what they’re getting. The more photos you take, the less likely there is to be a miscommunication. Additionally, preparing items for a garage sale by organizing and planning can help ensure a successful sale and maximize financial gain.
8. Give a Detailed Description
When listing your items for sale, be as thorough as possible. Just like your photos, give every detail you can. Even talk about the problem areas. Describe when the item was made and how old it is if applicable. Highlighting these details can significantly improve your chances of making money.
9. Seek Out Buyers on Facebook Marketplace
If you have a very niche item, seek out groups on social media who love this type. There are groups for various items. It may be a brand of china or other glassware. But those enthusiasts of that collectible will be anxious to buy something in that genre that they don’t have.
Additionally, consider using live auctions on platforms like Whatnot and Poshmark to showcase your items. Live auctions allow you to present your items on camera, set minimum prices, and interact with potential buyers, making it both a fun and potentially profitable method for flipping items.
10. Measure all Products
What’s big to you might not be to the buyer. Measure all clothing or other goods. This is especially true for jewelry or furniture. Clothes can also be different depending on the brand. Use a tape measure and put the dimensions in your description.
Additionally, consider the option to sell locally through platforms like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace.
11. Look Through All Your Unwanted Items
You might have hidden treasures that you don’t realize. If you have old cell phones or computer monitors, they may be worth money. There are sites like Swappa and Decluttr that will happily give you cash for your old electronics. Organizing items by home room can make it easier to measure and list them for sale.
12. Don’t Forget Your Social Media
Besides finding social media groups to sell your stuff, you can post on your own account. On Facebook, you can boost your post for seven days for only $28. Other platforms have similar programs. By doing this, you increase the chances of selling valuable items that might be hidden among your possessions.
13. Consigning and Donating
Consigning and donating are great options for getting rid of unwanted items while also making some extra cash. Consignment stores will sell your items and give you a percentage of the profit. Donating items to charity can also provide a tax deduction and help those in need. Consider consigning or donating items that are still in good condition but no longer needed or wanted. You can also use platforms like ThredUp or Poshmark to consign gently used clothing and accessories.
14. Use the Right Packaging
If you’re shipping goods, ensure that you wrap them carefully. Use a lot of bubble wrap and paper in a sturdy box. If the item is fragile or expensive, consider shipping insurance. Additionally, the post office plays a crucial role in the shipping process, offering a friendly environment that can make the task more enjoyable.
15. Overcome Obstacles
Decluttering and selling unwanted items can be a daunting task, but there are ways to overcome common obstacles. One obstacle is the emotional attachment to certain items. Try to let go of sentimental value and focus on the practical benefits of decluttering. Another obstacle is the lack of time or energy to declutter. Break down the task into smaller chunks, and consider enlisting the help of friends or family members. You can also use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to sell items quickly and easily.
16. Stay Organized
Staying organized is key to successful decluttering and selling. Set up a “sell station” in a garage or spare room to store items to be sold. Use labels and categories to keep track of items, and consider using a spreadsheet to keep track of sales and profits. Take clear photos and write detailed descriptions of items to attract interested buyers. Consider using a platform like eBay or Gumtree to sell items, and take advantage of their built-in organizational tools. By staying organized, you can make the most of your decluttering efforts and maximize your profits.
Conclusion
You can turn your trash into cash. Go through your home and examine items you no longer wear or use. You might find some hidden treasures.
