One way to declutter is by selling individual items through online classified ad systems like kijiji, Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. Here are some tips on preparing items for online sales to fetch higher prices.

Clean and Polish – Maybe

Before cleaning collectibles or antiques, you should consult an expert. Some pieces may be damaged by cleaning, thus decreasing the value significantly. An internet search will often help you find out how to best clean specific items. The time spent researching will often save the heartache of accidentally de-valuing a collectible. High-quality furs and leather clothing could be professionally cleaned before selling. Home jewelry cleaning kits can damage precious metals and gemstones. Ask a jeweller how or if, a piece should be cleaned.

Estimate the Value of Your Goods

Check the item’s retail value. If you can’t find an exact match, search for similar items and note their price. Also, look for what the item sells for used. Observe how much the seller is asking and what the final sale price is. Also, pay attention to how many people are selling similar goods and what condition the goods are in.

You’ll want to be competitive and in line with what is on the market.

My post on Coins, Gold, Silver, Vintage Toys & Furs – How to Pass Them Along lists a few local businesses where you can sell or have your goods appraised.

Take Quality Photos

High-quality images can make a big difference in your sale. Here are a few tips:

• This 4-minute video will show you how to build a “stage” to take excellent photos of smaller items.
• Watch this short video to learn some tricks for taking high-quality pictures of clothing.
• Clear clutter away from larger pieces if possible. If you can’t clear the clutter, cover it with a plain white sheet so the mess doesn’t detract from the piece you are photographing.
• Photograph the entire object including the front, back, and sides.
• Take close-up photos of distinguishing marks, brands, engravings, etc. as well as any scratches, cracks, stains, or other damage.
• If you are selling a group of items such as a silverware set, ensure each piece is visible in the picture. Take close-ups as well.
• If there are bills of sale, receipts, or other records to prove authenticity (of artwork, jewelry, or other high-value items), take photos of those as well. Prior to taking photos, use Post-it notes cut into strips to hide personal information (e.g., your home address) on receipts.

Write Accurate Descriptions

Explain what the item is, what it does, and how (or if) it functions as designed. Furniture, beds, and appliance dimensions have changed considerably over the years so use a measuring tape to provide exact dimensions. Measure clothing too because label size can be vastly different between designers.

Be honest and give details about any damage to the piece. Avoid emotional or biased language in your descriptions such as “favourite,” “gorgeous,” or “one-of-a-kind.” They are misleading phrases and you risk having to refund buyers. In the case of eBay, you may fail to meet their seller performance policy standards.

Whether you’re preparing for a move or just decluttering, preparing items for online sales can be a bit of work. But once the item has sold, you will have created some free space and made a little extra money.

If you need assistance decluttering or downsizing, Out of Chaos is here to help. Contact us for a consultation.

Image from Pixabay.