Is It Worth Selling? A Professional Organiser's Guide to Assessing your Decluttered Items for Sale

As a Professional Organiser, I'm often asked whether once you have decluttered your spaces are items are worth selling or should simply be donated. Here's my practical guide to making that decision.

The True Cost of Selling

Before listing anything, consider:

• Time spent photographing and listing items

• Storage space while waiting for sale

• Effort handling buyer enquiries

• Packaging and posting costs

• Platform fees and payment processing

• Failed sales and relisting time

Quick Value Assessment Checklist

High Potential for Selling

• Brand name items in good condition

• Current electronics (less than 3 years old)

• Vintage or collectible items

• Designer clothing with labels intact

• Complete sets of items

• Current trendy items

Better for Donation

• Generic household items

• Outdated electronics

• Well-worn clothing

• Incomplete sets

• Items needing repair

• Mass-produced decorative items

Where to Research Value

• Check completed sales on eBay

• Browse local Facebook Marketplace

• Compare Vinted listings

• Consult specialist dealers for antiques

• Search Gumtree for similar items

• Check CeX for electronics

The £20 Rule

A practical rule I share with clients:

• If an item will sell for less than £20, consider if the time investment is worthwhile

• Exception: If you can batch sell similar items together

• Consider the seasonal timing of sales

Best Selling Platforms

High-Value Items

• eBay for nationwide and international reach

• Specialist auction houses

• Facebook Marketplace for local sales

• Antique dealers for vintage pieces

Mid-Range Items

• Facebook Marketplace

• Vinted for clothing

• Local selling pages

• Gumtree

Batch Items

• Car boot sales

• Market stalls

• Local jumble sales

• Platforms such as Ziffit or Music Magpie

Professional Tips

• Set a time limit for selling

• Have a donation backup plan

• Be realistic about condition

• Factor in all costs

• Consider tax implications for valuable items

When to Seek Expert Valuation

Get professional appraisal for:

• Antiques over 100 years old

• Fine art and sculptures

• Valuable jewellery

• Rare collectibles

• Historical items

• Designer furniture

The Final Decision

Ask yourself:

• Is the potential profit worth my time?

• Do I have space to store this while selling?

• Am I willing to handle the entire selling process?

• Would donating bring more immediate satisfaction?

• Could someone benefit from this item more than I would from the money?

Need help assessing your items and creating a selling strategy? Let's work together to maximise your returns while minimising stress.

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