How to Sell Your Stuff
Good morning, Marilyn. I have to admit to having a bit of Spring Fever lately. When I look at my garage and basement, and see everything that seems to have accumulated magically over the winter, I feel like getting a garbage dumpster and just chucking it all. As enticing as this option might seem, I really don’t want it all going to landfill.
So this begs the question of what to do with the surplus that’s been identified once we begin decluttering. You may want to gift some to family, (if they want it, which is a big “if”) and certainly some can also be donated. Donating to charity is a wonderful win/win option.
But what about the surplus stuff that you’d like to sell? What are effective ways to turn your extra into extra cash?Do-it-yourself Options
- Garage Sales
Let’s start low-tech with hosting a garage sale. This is a familiar, easy way to sell surplus, but don’t expect to get rich off it. Some people seem to go garage sale-ing just for the pleasure of haggling. They can drive a hard bargain, so be prepared ahead of time. Don’t be offended, just say no and let them move on. Or, if you’re not that attached to the outcome, let them have their bargain knowing they’ve done you a favour by taking whatever it is off your hands.
If you’d like more tips on running a successful garage sale, be sure to reach out for a copy of today’s blog post at smartrealtysolution.com or by calling me, Sharon, at 416-460-5636.
Other DIY options require a bit of computer knowledge since they are all online selling options. Each one involves you uploading photos of the items for sale, adding a description and dimensions. Then potential buyers contact you through the site and the conversation begins online. Eventually you’ll have to arrange a pick up location and method of payment. Cash is strongly suggested. This sale method allows you to harness the power of technology to reach a vast audience of potential buyers, which is both its strength and weakness. If you’re game to try online sales you can check out:
- Online social media groups - Such as Facebook Marketplace or the community groups for your neighbourhood.
- Online sales apps - These sale apps are very popular among younger buyers. With names like Karrot, Kijiji, Etsy and Ebay you’d be forgiven for not having heard of them before. They can however be an effective way of selling a small number of items if you have the time.
- Online auction companies - Companies like MaxSold are better suited to selling large quantities of items, such as in a moving or estate sale situation. Unlike the other online options which are usually free, online auction companies charge a fee to use their platform to reach the largest audience of potential buyers. There is a full list of online auction companies at the end of this article.
Consignment Stores
- Of Things Past: Offers a large showroom for luxury furniture and home décor.
- ReDecor Consignment: Features upscale furniture and home accessories at discounted prices. ​
- ChicaBOOM Consignment: Sells modern and vintage furniture, décor, and designer fashion.
- Land & Ross Antiques: Specializes in 19th-century furniture and offers restoration services.
- Around The Block
- FOC
Auction Houses
- Miller & Miller Auctions (New Hamburg): Specializes in Canadiana, fine art, watches, and collectibles. ​
- Plato Auctions (St. Catharines): Offers expertise in antiques and collectibles with international reach.
- Reinhart Auctions (Caledon): Provides auction services for antiques, collectibles, and more.
- OSA Auctions (Belle River): Hosts indoor antique and farmers markets with over 60 consignors.
Tips for Hosting a Successful Garage Sale
- Plan Ahead: Choose a date with good weather and avoid long weekends when people may be away.​
- Advertise: Use local online groups, community boards, and apps like Facebook Marketplace to promote your sale.​
- Organize Items: Group similar items together (e.g., books, toys, kitchenware) and price them clearly.​
- Prepare for Shoppers: Have small change, bags, and a cash box ready.​
- Be Friendly: Engage with customers and be open to negotiations.​
Safety First: If selling high-value items, consider having a friend with you or hosting the sale in a secure location.
Perhaps by now you’re wondering why there are so many options for do-it-yourself sellers. In my opinion, it’s evidence that there is a demand by both the sellers, who are people with too much stuff, and buyers who are wanting better quality, older stuff rather.
While I have a minute, Marilyn, I just wanted to let listeners know about our Webinar
Wednesday, on April 16th at 4:00 pm. “The Decluttering Battle Plan” is our most popular workshop and webinar ever! We will be meeting via Zoom and learning our straightforward 5-step strategy to bust your clutter once and for all. You can register by visiting our website, smartrealtysolution.com or by calling me, Sharon, 416-460-5636. Like everything at SMART Realty Solutions, it’s free of cost or obligation.
While you’re there, why not check out our other resources for downsizers. Booklets, blogs and special offers all geared toward homeowners looking for solutions to their downsizing challenges.
That’s it for me, Marilyn. My name is Sharon Parenteau, and these have been your SMART Realty Solutions for today
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