 You are not alone if the clutter in your home is too overwhelming for you to handle on your own. According to the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professional (which your favorite professional organizer happens to be a member of *toots own horn*) 54 percent of America is overwhelmed by the amount of clutter they have, but 78 percent do not know to do with all of that stuff or find it too complicated to deal with it (2015). Hiring a professional organizer is an effective and efficient way to not only minimize your clutter, but also create a functional organization system in your home that can be maintained by you and your family. Professional organizers often go into "the biz" because they have a talent and eye for all things organization-- and yes, it's true, we really find satisfaction in organizing! Those beautiful "after" photos we create truly make our hearts soar and it's even better knowing we helped solve a problem for others. There are a few things all Professional Organizers want our clients to know before the organizing process begins. As an experienced Certified Professional Organizer® myself, I want to give you all a peek on the other side and help you prepare to work with a professional organizer, so I'm sharing with you 3 things Professional Organizers wish their clients knew. 1. If you're not willing to get rid of things, you're wasting your money. Before hiring a professional organizer, you need to be mentally prepared to donate and discard. Decluttering is an ESSENTIAL step in the organizing process. It may not be easy but you will have to relinquish a smidge of control and trust your professional organizer when they say "You really should part with *this.*" You are paying and hiring them for a reason! Your professional organizer will know how much needs to be given away/discarded and help you decide what you truly need. If you're not ready to reduce the number of items in your space, then your professional organizer will simply be rearranging rather than implementing an ideal organization system. 2. We are NOT judging the state of your home-- Honestly. Easily the most common hesitation people have about hiring a professional organizer is worrying they will judge your space. Professional organizers are the most organized people- right?! So they won't believe their eyes when they see such a chaotic home- right?! WRONG!! Professional organizers have seen it all, trust me, and even we have a disorderly spot in our homes. Nothing shocks us and we truly just want to help you. You may see a chaotic, cluttered, shameful closet-- we see an opportunity to use our skills, express our organizing creativity and make a client happy! 3. Doing the job right takes time Quality organizing work takes longer than you may think. The cluttered room did not happen in two hours, so it is not going to be fixed in two hours either. A good professional organizer will need ample time to get your space in tip-top shape. Pressuring an organizer to rush or requiring them to finish in an unreasonable amount of time will only result in either an unfinished job or half-assed work. Make sure to use the consultation (which most professional organizers require) to get a full understanding of the estimated time and cost necessary to achieve the results you're looking for. Budget and allow for the time to let us do our job and give you a high quality end result. I hope you enjoyed reading about the 3 things all professional organizers wish our clients knew! What questions do you have about the process of working with a professional organizer? Comment below! If you're looking for more organization ideas and tips, follow Sage Organizing Co. on Pinterest! Need more help with organizing your home or estate clearing? Contact us and book a consultation to start your organized life today! Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
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 Before you can get properly organized, it is important to declutter your home! Now wait, I can already hear you saying, "That's great Candi, but where do I START?!" I totally understand what you mean. It can be hard to decide what to give away and what to keep especially when we feel attached many items in our home. How many times have you thought, "Well, maybe I'll need this sometime in the distant future?" or "What if I regret/feel guilty about getting rid of this?" I know the feeling and that is why I am here to help! I have compiled a short list of 15 items you should NOT feel bad about getting rid of. Whether you are planning on moving, recently moved, or just plain tired of the disorganization, this list will guide you in starting to declutter your home. Some items on the list can definitely be thrown away, but I highly recommend you consider the condition of the item first and if it should be donated so that somebody else can benefit from it. Your GUILT-FREE Decluttering List 1. Old nail polishes and expired skincare/makeup 2. Clothing you haven't worn in years or clothing you bought years ago but never wore 3. Games and puzzles with missing pieces 4. Old children's toys and dog toys (this is important not only for decluttering but for sanitary purposes too!) 5. Books, including recipe books, that you don't plan on reading again or reading at all (be honest with yourself here) 6. Mostly empty cleaning supplies/bottles and condiment bottles 7. Broken jewelry or jewelry you never wear including watches 8. Old receipts, coupons, flyers, notes, and paper (If there is info you REALLY need, transfer it to a document on your computer/phone!) 9. Children's art work, completed school work, and old baby clothes... narrow down to just a few of these if you want memories or take photos on your phone. I know it can be hard, but you definitely don't need all of it! 10. Pens, markers, and any other craft supplies that are old or excessive 11. Old/frayed underwear, socks, and undergarments 12. Plastic bags from grocery and shopping stores 13. DVD's, CD's, and VCR tapes as well as old electronic players 14. Old, damaged cooking utensils such as spatulas and cooking spoons 15. Old or worn rugs, towels, and blankets (I especially like to switch out my old hand towels with new ones so I always have bright white and fresh towels in the bathroom!) Phew, and that's it folks! Of course, this isn't a comprehensive list for everything you need to get rid of, but it's a good place to start. And, let me remind you one last time, you do NOT need to feel guilty about throwing away or donating any of the items I listed! If you're looking for more organization ideas and tips, follow Sage Organizing Co. onPinterest! Need more help with organizing your home? Contact us and book a consultation to start your organized life today! Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area. Related Articles: Estate Sales Aren't Always the Answer: Why Estate Clearing Might Better Fit Your Needs How to Sort Like a Pro: Advice from a Professional Organizer Nobody Wants the Family Heirlooms: What to Do When it Happens to You   Makeup: a love-hate relationship. It can be fun to experiment with new makeup products and try out the trendiest lipstick shades, but after the shopping-adrenaline wears off, the sheer number of cosmetic products we each own can be truly overwhelming. Concealers, foundations, eyeshadows, eyeliners, mascaras, blushes, bronzers- the majority of our makeup comes in small, individual containers. With all these small products, it can be hard to have a functional cosmetic organization system. Stop feeling like your makeup storage is grimy and embarrassing and follow these 5 hacks for a clean, organized space to hold your makeup goodies: 1. Throw away all expired makeup/makeup you don't use A lot of people don't realize that makeup products expire. Each item of makeup should have a small picture of container on it with how many months the makeup is good for. For instance, the back of my bronzer says "24M" inside the picture of the container meaning it expires in 24 months. Keeping old makeup not only clogs up your pores, it clogs up your storage too! While you are checking the expiration dates on your products, also think, "When was the last time I used this?" Just because it isn't expired, doesn't mean it deserves a place in your drawer. It can be hard to part with makeup but once you throw away makeup you aren't using, it will make you more conscious the next time you go shopping. Check out this chart to help if you still have questions about when your makeup expires! 
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Leigh Bryant is the Director of Sales and Expansion Partner for The Temple Team in Charlotte, NC. Contact her here.
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Whether you are moving and unpacking a kitchen, or just want to reorganize, your mind will be blown by these 4 kitchen organizing secrets.!
Ready to learn the Kitchen Organizing Tips that will amaze you? Read on...
Secret #1: Organize Your Kitchen Into Work Zones
The most efficient way to set up your kitchen is to have “zones” for each function of the room. Take into consideration where you want things located, what will go there, and why it makes sense.
Ideas for kitchen work zones:
Dishwasher and Sink
What: Cleaning products, dish towels, everyday plates, bowls, silverware and glasses.
Why: Keep items closest to where they are most frequently used. Choose cabinets, shelves, and drawers near the dishwasher to make unloading efficient and easy.
Cooking and Stove
What: Pots, pans, bake ware, and cooking utensils, and frequently used spices/oils.
Why: Reduce the movement needed when cooking hot foods. Choose deep cabinets for pots and pans. Store bake ware near oven.
Food Prep Zone
What: Cutting boards, mixing bowls, Tupperware, knife block, often-used counter top appliances.
Why: Keep everything you need to prep your meals within arms reach. Keep appliances that are used daily on the counter top; everything else should be stored in cupboards and drawers
Food Storage Zone
What: Shelf stable foods and food wraps. Usually stored on pantry shelves.
Why: Keeping all food in the same area allows you to see when you’re out or running low. Organize foods by category (e.g. all baking items together, all canned goods, snacks, etc.)
The Rest
What: Everything else should be filled in in the remaining available spaces.
Why: All the often-used items have been put away. Now put the rest away in the high, low and tough-to-get to spots.
Ideas for kitchen work zones:
Dishwasher and Sink
What: Cleaning products, dish towels, everyday plates, bowls, silverware and glasses.
Why: Keep items closest to where they are most frequently used. Choose cabinets, shelves, and drawers near the dishwasher to make unloading efficient and easy.
Cooking and Stove
What: Pots, pans, bake ware, and cooking utensils, and frequently used spices/oils.
Why: Reduce the movement needed when cooking hot foods. Choose deep cabinets for pots and pans. Store bake ware near oven.
Food Prep Zone
What: Cutting boards, mixing bowls, Tupperware, knife block, often-used counter top appliances.
Why: Keep everything you need to prep your meals within arms reach. Keep appliances that are used daily on the counter top; everything else should be stored in cupboards and drawers
Food Storage Zone
What: Shelf stable foods and food wraps. Usually stored on pantry shelves.
Why: Keeping all food in the same area allows you to see when you’re out or running low. Organize foods by category (e.g. all baking items together, all canned goods, snacks, etc.)
The Rest
What: Everything else should be filled in in the remaining available spaces.
Why: All the often-used items have been put away. Now put the rest away in the high, low and tough-to-get to spots.
Secret #2: The Countertop is Prime Real Estate
There is only so much counter space to go around, so items have to “earn” their spot.
For example, if you’re a daily coffee drinker, your coffeemaker should be on the counter top. (Pro tip: store your coffee mugs, coffee, and filters in the cabinet directly above the coffee maker for easy access). Same thing goes for a toaster: if you enjoy toast daily, leave the toaster on the counter top and store the butter dish in the cabinet above it.
The counters around the kitchen sink deserve some counter space, since many items are used all day long. Dish soap, hand soap, and paper towels all belong right next to the sink. Keeping neatly folded dish towels in a small basket near the sink is another option.
Be honest with how often you really use small appliances. Just because you make a panini once a month does not warrant a space on the counter for the Breville. If you make smoothies only on the weekend, do not leave the blender on the counter all week. Store your lesser-used appliances in cabinets and pantry shelves.
For example, if you’re a daily coffee drinker, your coffeemaker should be on the counter top. (Pro tip: store your coffee mugs, coffee, and filters in the cabinet directly above the coffee maker for easy access). Same thing goes for a toaster: if you enjoy toast daily, leave the toaster on the counter top and store the butter dish in the cabinet above it.
The counters around the kitchen sink deserve some counter space, since many items are used all day long. Dish soap, hand soap, and paper towels all belong right next to the sink. Keeping neatly folded dish towels in a small basket near the sink is another option.
Be honest with how often you really use small appliances. Just because you make a panini once a month does not warrant a space on the counter for the Breville. If you make smoothies only on the weekend, do not leave the blender on the counter all week. Store your lesser-used appliances in cabinets and pantry shelves.
Related Articles:
How to Sort Like a Pro: Advice from a Professional Organizer
Declutter, Donate, and Deduct
Hoarder, Pack-rat, or Just Messy: 3 Ways to Tell the Difference
How to Beautifully Stage Your Home So it Sells in a Flash
How to Sort Like a Pro: Advice from a Professional Organizer
Declutter, Donate, and Deduct
Hoarder, Pack-rat, or Just Messy: 3 Ways to Tell the Difference
How to Beautifully Stage Your Home So it Sells in a Flash
Secret #3: Allow Yourself a “Junk Drawer”, but organize it!
The kitchen becomes a dumping ground for nearly everything. Rather than fight it (and lose), allow yourself one “junk drawer”. Caution: do not let it get out of hand. Purchase small drawer organizers to keep like items together.
Frequently used “junk drawer” items ideas:
Frequently used “junk drawer” items ideas:
- Stamps
- Pens, pencils, rubber bands, paper clips and twist ties
- Batteries
- Notepads and post-its
- Gum, mints, and ChapStik
- Scissors and tape
- Chargers and earbuds
- Loose change
- Birthday candles and matches
- Small hand tools, nails and screws
- Flashlights
And One More Secret: Enough with all the Duplicate Items!
Probably the best advice, and the hardest for people to follow, is to eliminate duplicate items when organizing or unpacking a kitchen. Chances are that you only use one set of silverware, one set of everyday dishes, and the same few drinking glasses daily.
What about items that are used once a year (e.g. only pulled out at Thanksgiving)? Ask yourself if you really use the item...or just used it once and not-so-much anymore. Be ruthless!
Have more than one actively-used set of these items? Consider boxing it up and donating to a good local charity.
What about items that are used once a year (e.g. only pulled out at Thanksgiving)? Ask yourself if you really use the item...or just used it once and not-so-much anymore. Be ruthless!
Have more than one actively-used set of these items? Consider boxing it up and donating to a good local charity.
- Kitchen utensils (e.g. spatulas, old paring knives, corkscrews)
- Glassware and coffee mugs.
- Tupperware and disposable plastic ware
- Pots and pans
- Old appliances that have have been replaced (e.g. your old 1980’s crock pot with the flowers on it).
Related Articles:
6 Things to Not Bother Collecting Anymore (and How to Tell What IS Worth Holding Onto)
How to Sort Like a Pro: Advice from a Professional Organizer
6 Things to Not Bother Collecting Anymore (and How to Tell What IS Worth Holding Onto)
How to Sort Like a Pro: Advice from a Professional Organizer
You can Organize your kitchen!!
It's easy to organize your kitchen while you unpack by using these 4 secrets.
What's your favorite kitchen organization tip?
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
What's your favorite kitchen organization tip?
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Whether you are organizing one room in your house or decluttering a home full of stuff, knowing how to efficiently sort is crucial to your success. Professional Organizers use the tips and tricks on this checklist to help clients, and now I'm sharing those hacks with you.
Ready to learn a professional organizer's tips for Sorting? Read on...
Set yourself up for success
Before starting any organizing or decluttering job, make sure you have all the supplies you need before you get started.
Tools/ Supplies Needed:
Tools/ Supplies Needed:
- Post-it notes (consider the heavy ones) and/or painters tape
- Color coded dots (for larger jobs)
- Sturdy boxes/Packing materials/Packing tape
- Sharpies
- Trash Bags (preferably heavy duty)
- Sturdy Step Stool
- Work gloves
- Work when not hungry or tired
- Set small attainable goals
- Make work area safe (trip hazards, pets, temperature, pests)
- Clean as you go or do regular spot clean-ups
Keep
The first step is to sort your "keepers" into a pile or one area. Keep items that you love and actively use. Items that aren't actively used should be moved into a long term storage area, such as a basement or attic.
Tools/ Supplies Needed:
*available space in actively used items
*temperature variation in for long term solutions
*transporting “keepers” to new location, if applicable
Tools/ Supplies Needed:
- archival photo boxes and vital document storage
- long term storage solutions (like large Rubbermaid bins)
- short term storage solutions to sort into
*available space in actively used items
*temperature variation in for long term solutions
*transporting “keepers” to new location, if applicable
Sell
Don't love it, but you'd like to make a little money from it? Consider selling online or offline.
Tools/Supplies Needed:
Tools/Supplies Needed:
- Internet connection
- Selling online? Think about packaging and shipping costs for the item.
- Consigning locally? Research how to transport items to the shop, the details of the contract, and how unsold items are disposed of.
- Safety first! Use caution when meeting strangers and exchanging money.
Related Articles
6 Things to Not Bother Collecting Anymore
Nobody Wants Family Heirlooms: What to Do When it Happens to You.
Gift These 5 Wonderful Experiences To the Ones You Love..Instead of Buying "Stuff"
6 Things to Not Bother Collecting Anymore
Nobody Wants Family Heirlooms: What to Do When it Happens to You.
Gift These 5 Wonderful Experiences To the Ones You Love..Instead of Buying "Stuff"
Donate
Have items that don't need to live with you anymore, but are still in great condition? Give to a local charity.
Tools Needed:
Tools Needed:
- Post-its or colored dots
- Bags or sturdy boxes to transport the items
- Document, document, document. Itemize your donations if giving a large amount. Check outhow to easily keep track of donations here.
- Whenever possible, schedule a pick-up for items at your home.
- No pick-ups available? Immediately put the donations in your trunk and drop off on your next round of errands.
Discard
Some things just need to be discarded. If the items can't be sold or donated, its time for the trash/ recycling bin.
Tools Needed:
Tools Needed:
- heavy duty trash bags
- floor protections for larger jobs (spills and scrapes)
- broom/dustpan and vacuum
- recycling bins
- Household hazardous waste disposal
- City trash + recycling pick-up and standards
- Rental of a dumpster
- Bulky item collection
Related Articles
HOW TO DOWNSIZE YOUR HOME BEFORE MOVING
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with free printable How to Sell Items Offline Cheat Sheet
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with free printable How to Sell Items Online Cheat Sheet
HOW TO DOWNSIZE YOUR HOME BEFORE MOVING
4 Smart Ideas to Sell Your Stuff Offline and 1 Really Dumb One
with free printable How to Sell Items Offline Cheat Sheet
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with free printable How to Sell Items Online Cheat Sheet
YOU'RE ready to sort like a pro!
Using this checklist, you now have the tools to Keep, Sell, Donate or Discard when you are decluttering and organizing.
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Sometimes you can't do it on your own:
WHEN IT’S TIME TO THROW IN THE TOWEL AND HIRE AN ESTATE CLEARING PROFESSIONAL TO HELP YOU FINISH THE JOB.
There are 2 times when families are faced with trying to figure out how to clear out an entire homes’ worth of possessions, usually within a fairly quick time frame.
- When a family member moves into senior care, leaving behind nearly 80% of possessions in the house that has been lived in for decades. The Power of Attorney (or similar authority) often takes on the responsibility of getting the remaining home cleared out and ready for market.
- After a family member passes away and the estate is ready to be cleared out. The Executor then is charged with emptying the home.
If the Executor / Power of Attorney lives near the home in question, they can easily rally other family members to help with the massive project on nights, weekends, and holidays. This works for families who have the time, willingness, and physical strength to get the job done.
But sometimes that doesn’t work. Sometimes, you can’t do it on your own.
That’s when you need to consider an Estate Clearing Professional to finish the job for you.
But sometimes that doesn’t work. Sometimes, you can’t do it on your own.
That’s when you need to consider an Estate Clearing Professional to finish the job for you.
Estate Clearing Professionals can step in at any stage and take care of all the details for you.
An experienced Estate Clearing Professional will
- Learn how you want all of the items in the house handled, then carry out your wishes for you.
- Arrange for appraisers, movers, shredding companies, waste disposal, cleaning companies, city services, and much more.
- Suggest local charitable groups to benefit from items your family chooses to donate. You’ll know your items are helping others in need.
- Provide you with itemized donations reports, which could save you thousands on your tax returns.
Learn more about estate clearing here.
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Don’t struggle through getting the house cleared out on your own. Contactan Estate Clearing Professional to help you.
Related Articles:
Declutter, Donate, and Deduct
Estate Sales Aren't Always the Answer: Why Estate Clearing Might Better Fit Your Needs
Nobody Want the Family Heirlooms: What to Do When it Happens to You
with free Declutter +Downsize Family Heirlooms Game Plan
Mentally Prepare for Downsizing Your Home: 4 Tips to Control Your Emotions
with printable Downsizing Your Home Emotional Roadmap
Declutter, Donate, and Deduct
Estate Sales Aren't Always the Answer: Why Estate Clearing Might Better Fit Your Needs
Nobody Want the Family Heirlooms: What to Do When it Happens to You
with free Declutter +Downsize Family Heirlooms Game Plan
Mentally Prepare for Downsizing Your Home: 4 Tips to Control Your Emotions
with printable Downsizing Your Home Emotional Roadmap
When you are ready to declutter your home and start selling some of your items online, you’ll want to do a little bit of research, have a flexible timeline, and have a basic amount of technical savvy.
Today we are sharing our top 5 tips for selling your stuff online, and as a bonus, we’ve created a free download of How to Sell Your Items Online Cheat Sheet.
Today we are sharing our top 5 tips for selling your stuff online, and as a bonus, we’ve created a free download of How to Sell Your Items Online Cheat Sheet.
Are you Ready to Learn How to Sell Your Stuff Online? Read On.
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Just for our readers, we’ve created this nifty How to Sell Your Items Online Cheat Sheet. Download and enjoy!
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Step One: Google “How to Sell xxx Online”
The first and easiest way to figure out how to sell your stuff online is to simply Google it.
You want to list your item on the site that has the biggest audience of potential buyers. For instance, if you were selling a set of golf clubs online, Ebay may be the best bet. But if you were selling custom hand-embroidered tea towels, Etsy is where you want to be. Selling antiques and collectibles often is easier on sites dedicated to those items.
You want to list your item on the site that has the biggest audience of potential buyers. For instance, if you were selling a set of golf clubs online, Ebay may be the best bet. But if you were selling custom hand-embroidered tea towels, Etsy is where you want to be. Selling antiques and collectibles often is easier on sites dedicated to those items.
The Big Guys: Ebay and Amazon
It will come as no surprise that selling your stuff online on Ebay and Amazon are popular methods.
Both platforms have incredibly large audiences, thereby increasing your chances of selling your item quickly. There are fees associated with using both services, so be sure you are aware of what you are agreeing to before listing your items.
Both platforms have incredibly large audiences, thereby increasing your chances of selling your item quickly. There are fees associated with using both services, so be sure you are aware of what you are agreeing to before listing your items.
Related Articles:
Nobody Want the Family Heirlooms
With Declutter +Downsize Family Heirlooms Game Plan
4 Smart Ideas to Sell Your Stuff Offline and 1 Really Dumb One
With How To Sell Items Offline Cheat Sheet
Sometimes You Can’t Do it on Your Own: When it’s Time to Throw in the Towel and Hire an Estate Clearing Professional to Help you Finish the Job.
Nobody Want the Family Heirlooms
With Declutter +Downsize Family Heirlooms Game Plan
4 Smart Ideas to Sell Your Stuff Offline and 1 Really Dumb One
With How To Sell Items Offline Cheat Sheet
Sometimes You Can’t Do it on Your Own: When it’s Time to Throw in the Towel and Hire an Estate Clearing Professional to Help you Finish the Job.
Lesser Known: Ebid, Bonanza, Etsy, Collectors.com
As mentioned above, Etsy is a great site for selling handmade and craft items online. If you have beads, buttons, fabrics, and vintage items to sell, be sure to give Etsy a look.
Ebid is a site that is similar to Ebay, but doesn’t have the same amount of traffic. If you’re selling on Ebid, you’ll want to market your items elsewhere, too. On the plus side, however, EBid has lower fees than the big guys.
Bonanza is a great option for selling more unique and quirky items. Bonanza has a large audience, has no listing fee, and a low commission percentage compared to Ebay.
Collectors.com is a great option to sell your collectibles online.
Ebid is a site that is similar to Ebay, but doesn’t have the same amount of traffic. If you’re selling on Ebid, you’ll want to market your items elsewhere, too. On the plus side, however, EBid has lower fees than the big guys.
Bonanza is a great option for selling more unique and quirky items. Bonanza has a large audience, has no listing fee, and a low commission percentage compared to Ebay.
Collectors.com is a great option to sell your collectibles online.
Local Options: Craigslist or Facebook Groups
The best thing about selling your stuff online locally is that you pay zero fees for listing and selling.
If you live in an area that has an active Craigslist community, try listing your item there. Photos are key to selling your items. Use common sense and caution when meeting with buyers: only accept cash and meet in public places.
If you live in a community without a lot of Craiglist action, selling your stuff in Facebook Groups is a great option. Find local Facebook groups to list your items and be sure to follow all the rules. You’ll keep all the profits of selling via Facebook
If you live in an area that has an active Craigslist community, try listing your item there. Photos are key to selling your items. Use common sense and caution when meeting with buyers: only accept cash and meet in public places.
If you live in a community without a lot of Craiglist action, selling your stuff in Facebook Groups is a great option. Find local Facebook groups to list your items and be sure to follow all the rules. You’ll keep all the profits of selling via Facebook
Related Articles:
Estate Sales Aren't Always the Answer: Why Estate Clearing Might Better Fit Your Needs
5 Steps to Get Rid of Sentimental Clutter
With Declutter + Downsize Sentimental Items Game Plan
Mentally Prepare for Downsizing Your Home: 4 Tips to Control Your Emotions
With Downsizing Your Home Emotional Roadmap
Estate Sales Aren't Always the Answer: Why Estate Clearing Might Better Fit Your Needs
5 Steps to Get Rid of Sentimental Clutter
With Declutter + Downsize Sentimental Items Game Plan
Mentally Prepare for Downsizing Your Home: 4 Tips to Control Your Emotions
With Downsizing Your Home Emotional Roadmap
Apps to Consider: Letgo, Offerup, Etc.
There are several apps that let you create accounts and list your items for other members to see.
Apps like LetGo, OfferUp, and 5Miles, etc. are certainly options, however, many users complain about spammers, failure to show up to buy, etc. Be sure to read reviews from users before signing up for an app.
Apps like LetGo, OfferUp, and 5Miles, etc. are certainly options, however, many users complain about spammers, failure to show up to buy, etc. Be sure to read reviews from users before signing up for an app.
You Can Sell Your Stuff Online!
Learning how to sell your items online takes a little bit of research, a flexible timeline, and some technical savvy, but it also can get you the best price. If you are ready to declutter your home and make a little money in the process, try one of our five steps above.
Leave a comment to let us know how your sale went!
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Leave a comment to let us know how your sale went!
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
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Download your free How to Sell Items Online Cheat Sheet here.
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4 smart ideas to sell your stuff offline...and 1 really dumb one (with free printable cheat sheet)
3/5/2018
Whatever you reasons are for selling offline, we are here to share our 4 smart ideas for selling your stuff offline...and one really dumb one.
There are several reasons why you may choose to sell you stuff offline instead of online.
Maybe you have a huge amount of items to sell and don't want to deal with managing 100's of online sales. Perhaps the items, like furniture and antiques, are difficult to pack and ship. Or maybe the seller isn't comfortable with the technology of selling online.
There are several reasons why you may choose to sell you stuff offline instead of online.
Maybe you have a huge amount of items to sell and don't want to deal with managing 100's of online sales. Perhaps the items, like furniture and antiques, are difficult to pack and ship. Or maybe the seller isn't comfortable with the technology of selling online.
READY TO LEARN THE 4 SMART IDEAS FOR SELLING YOUR STUFF OFFLINE? READ ON!
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We are also sharing our How To Sell Items Offline Cheat Sheet with you today. Just click here to download.
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1: Consider COnsignment Shops
Contacting local consignment shops about selling your items is a great option, but there are some drawbacks.
Consignment shops generally are interested in good-condition furniture, antiques, and home décor. Always call the shop before hauling your items there to see if they are accepting new product. Sending pictures ahead of time is highly recommended.
If you enter into a contract with the consignment shop, they will handle the set-up, pricing and (usually) the remnants. You will receive your payment from them anywhere from 90-120 days.
Some drawbacks you may want to consider:
Consignment shops generally are interested in good-condition furniture, antiques, and home décor. Always call the shop before hauling your items there to see if they are accepting new product. Sending pictures ahead of time is highly recommended.
If you enter into a contract with the consignment shop, they will handle the set-up, pricing and (usually) the remnants. You will receive your payment from them anywhere from 90-120 days.
Some drawbacks you may want to consider:
- You may have to haul the item to them.
- Most shops take a 40-50% commission on the item
- You may have to pick items up that don’t sell
2: Think about Yard or garage sales
If you have a lot of items (of varied quality) to sell, having a yard sale may be right for you. The biggest benefit of a yard sale is that you keep 100% of the profits.
There are a couple key points to having a successful yard sale:
On the downside, yard sales can be a tremendous amount of set-up and tear-down work. Be ready to haggle: negotiating is part of the yard-sale culture. Be sure you have an “exit strategy” to discard or donate items that don’t sell.
There are a couple key points to having a successful yard sale:
- Advertise, advertise, advertise. Get the word out!
- Make your sale easy to shop. Organize like items together and display things neatly. No one likes to dig through boxes.
On the downside, yard sales can be a tremendous amount of set-up and tear-down work. Be ready to haggle: negotiating is part of the yard-sale culture. Be sure you have an “exit strategy” to discard or donate items that don’t sell.
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3: HOw about an estate sale
If you have an entire house (and garage, attic and/or basement) of things to sell, running your own weekend-long estate sale is an option.
Just like yard sales, it is vitally important to advertise as much as possible. The more traffic you have at your sale, the better your chances of selling things are.
Items should be displayed in an easy-to-shop way and clearly priced. Be ready to help customers haul their purchases out of the house.
Estate sales generally follow a structured price-reduction schedule (e.g. full price Friday and Saturday afternoon, 25% off Saturday night, 50%-75% on Sunday.). Be sure your customers are aware of how your sale is running to avoid problems.
Just like yard sales, it is vitally important to advertise as much as possible. The more traffic you have at your sale, the better your chances of selling things are.
Items should be displayed in an easy-to-shop way and clearly priced. Be ready to help customers haul their purchases out of the house.
Estate sales generally follow a structured price-reduction schedule (e.g. full price Friday and Saturday afternoon, 25% off Saturday night, 50%-75% on Sunday.). Be sure your customers are aware of how your sale is running to avoid problems.
4: Try contacting Jeweler or certified appraiser
Don’t assume jewelry, fine collectibles and gold/silver are fakes or junk! You could literally be throwing money in the garbage.
Research reputable jewelers or certified personal property appraisers in your area and have them review the items. They may be able to connect you with buyers for valuable items.
Any fee you pay to an appraiser is worth saving you the heartache of accidentally throwing away a treasure.
Research reputable jewelers or certified personal property appraisers in your area and have them review the items. They may be able to connect you with buyers for valuable items.
Any fee you pay to an appraiser is worth saving you the heartache of accidentally throwing away a treasure.
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The dumb idea? pawning your valuables
The one advantage of selling your valuables to a pawn shop is that you get cash quickly. However, you pay for that desperation.
Chances are that an item you sell to a pawn shop will only get you 25% of the item’s value. You are far better off selling your items anywhere else. Don’t let reality TV shows give you the idea that you’ll make a great profit at a pawn shop.
Remember, if you sell your item to a pawn shop, they have the right to sell your item.
Chances are that an item you sell to a pawn shop will only get you 25% of the item’s value. You are far better off selling your items anywhere else. Don’t let reality TV shows give you the idea that you’ll make a great profit at a pawn shop.
Remember, if you sell your item to a pawn shop, they have the right to sell your item.
You are ready to sell your stuff offline!
Selling your stuff offline can be a great idea if you have a large number of things to sell in a relatively short time frame.
Consigning, yard sales, and estate sales are a fair amount of work for you, but you’ll see cash in-hand fairly quickly.
Be sure to have a reputable jeweler or certified appraiser review items before throwing them out.
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
Consigning, yard sales, and estate sales are a fair amount of work for you, but you’ll see cash in-hand fairly quickly.
Be sure to have a reputable jeweler or certified appraiser review items before throwing them out.
Professional Disclaimer: The ideas, recommendations, and opinions on this website, blog, and made in person are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered legal, financial, or medical advice. I am not an attorney, doctor, or licensed financial professional. Sage Organizing Co., LLC is not liable for any losses or damages related to actions or failure to act related to the content of this website, blog, or in-person discussions. If you need specific legal, financial, or medical advice, consult a professional in your area.
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To help you get started selling your stuff offline, we are sharing this handy cheat sheet. Enjoy, and Happy Selling!
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I'm Candi.
I'm an Estate Clearing Pro + Certified Professional Organizer®, helping people with family in senior care or that have lost someone to clear out all the contents of the house within a week.
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