Before you Sell, Prep your Unwanted Items

If this spring you spent time cleaning out a closet, the garage or a room in your house you probably have things you want to get rid of…but how? You can donate, sell or recycle these items. If you plan to sell the items there are many ways to sell unwanted items. Consider eBay, a garage sale, sell to a friend, CraigsList, or post an ad in a church or community newsletter. All of these options are good and valid means of selling your items.

When selling your unwanted items it is not important how you sell them but to make sure you prep your items for sale. Here are things to consider before selling your items:

• Gather all accessories to the item. If you’re selling a used digital camera make sure you have all the cords, cables, etc. that came with the camera. If you’re missing a component be up front when listing the item.
• Clean it. If you’re selling your house, you cut the grass and clean the inside, right? The same is true if you’re selling clothes, a car, or a shovel. No one is going to buy a shovel with dirt on it…the buyer wants your shovel, not your dirt! Cleaning your items show you care and that you’ve taken care of the item and will likely warrant you more money.
• Erase your identity. Remove your name or any other personal identification marks before selling any items. For example, if you’re selling used luggage remove the luggage tags with your name and phone number or white-out your name in the inside-cover of a book. This is also true for selling used computers. Just formatting the hard drive isn’t enough…check out diskwipe.org to clear your computer and protect your identity. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so even if you’re selling something to a friend, clear your identity because it might not always be in your friend’s hands…
• Do your research. Just because you paid $50 for an item doesn’t mean you’ll get that if you sell 5 years later. Or even $20 for the item. If you check ebay.com to see what other people are selling similar items for, don’t assume the ebay seller will get that amount. Wait to see what the item actually sells for…that will give you an idea of what it’s worth. Shop around and talk to experts especially if you’re selling collectibles or antiques.

Check back soon for what to do with items you’re willing to donate!

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