Sometimes we all look around our homes and are surprised by the amount of stuff we have. Maybe you have unopened boxes stashed away from your move three years ago, or have a child that has outgrown certain clothes and toys. Regardless of the reason, taking the time to purge these items from your life can be an emotional release and a profitable venture.
If you are looking for ways to cut down on your stuff and make a little money on the side, consider these options.
Car Boot Sales
One of these easiest ways to get your items in front of potential buyers is at a car boot sale. To prepare for the sale, you will have to organise your belongings beforehand. This can include making sure which items are in an appropriate condition, as well as grouping and pricing items.
Since you will need to transport the items you are looking to sell to the car boot sale location, you may be limited on how much you can bring by the size of your car. There may also be a longer time commitment than some other options since you need to be present throughout the sale, but it can be an excellent way to relieve yourself of items you no longer need.
Selling Online
If you don’t want to bring your stuff to a sale, you can consider selling items online. Websites like Ebay can provide you with a forum for listing your goods and facilitating the sale. Generally, you don’t have to be involved, once the listing is created until the item is sold.
Once the item sells, you will be provided shipping information to get the item to the purchaser. Then, simply package the item and stick it in the post. There are fees associated with using some of these websites, so it may not be ideal for low priced items, but you may be able to sell higher priced options for more here than at a car boot sale.
Online classified ads, like Craigslist, can also provide a way to reach a wider audience without some of the fees associated with sales through other sites. It is important to make sure that, if you meet a potential buyer, that you take extra safety precautions. Often, it is best to meet them in a public place that is fairly busy. Some may choose to meet in front of a police station, as this provides an added layer of security.
Friends, Family, and Co-workers
One way to get items sold is to let your friends and family know of your intentions. At times, you may be selling something that they could use, allowing you to make a quick sale to someone you trust. They may also know someone who could use the item, allowing you to make a sale to someone your friend or family member knows and trusts.
Your co-workers may also be interested in your items. If your office has a bulletin board and sales flyers are permitted, you can advertise your items there. Alternatively, you can mention your sale to co-workers with whom you have a friendly relationship.
They may be interested in purchasing something themselves, or may know someone who could use the item. However, before attempting any sales activity while at work, it is important to determine if these activities are permitted by your employer.
Manage What Remains
If you still have items you no longer need after your sales, consider donating anything that is in usable condition to charity. This can allow someone who may truly need it to use it as it keeps the item from joining the rest of the rubbish pile.
