Consumer Reports: Turn Old Items Into Cash
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The idea of downsizing can be overwhelming whether you're moving into a smaller home or just want to get rid of some things.
How do you know what the best way is to get rid of certain items like furniture, clothing, or appliances?
Consumer Reports has some advice for getting the most money for the stuff you no longer need.
Like many Americans, John Magoun and his family are downsizing from a large home to one half the size.
As a result, they've had to ask themselves some tough questions.
"It's not just furniture; it's possessions, it's books, it's things your kids grew up with," Magoun said.
Consumer Reports has determined the best ways to get the best price for your furniture and everything else.
"To maximize your profit, you'll want to match your items to the best places to sell them. Whether that's an auction, a consignment shop, online, or a yard sale," Consumer Reports' Amanda Walker said.
Valuable furniture and antiques in excellent condition could bring the most profit at an auction or consignment shop.
"This should be very easy to sell. We go to your home, we assess your items, we pick up your items, and we sell your items. The only thing you have to do is collect your money," consignment store owner Miriam Speropolis said.
Furniture in good or gently worn condition should be sold on the Internet. Using Craigslist or a community Facebook site makes it easy to list heavy items as "pickup only."
Your artwork will get a better audience in an auction or consignment environment, and make you more money.
As for clothing, consignment is a good idea if it's less than two years old and in good condition.
If you hold a yard sale, don't tag your items.
You'll make more money asking buyers for their best offer.
But, there are some things you can't even give away – such as a big screen tube television.
There is always that final choice when nothing else works - a ride to the recycling center or the dump.
For things you can't sell, charity is also an excellent option.
Check to make sure it's an IRS-qualified organization and you can take a tax deduction for your donation.
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