Downsizing

You may look at a jacket you haven’t worn in three years and remember a fond memory you had while wearing it. Or you may find an old coin collection you started as a child. Not only do you have those memories of collecting coins for years, but you wonder what the value of those coins could be worth now. Finally, some people hang on to items because they fear they may need it in the future, even if they’ve held on it for 15 or 20 years without that need.

Although the process may not be easy, the time will come at some point to downsize your life, and you’ll have to decide what stays and what goes. Here’s how you can get started.

1. Clothing

Don’t save clothing that doesn’t fit you or that may work for that one hypothetical occasion. You can’t continue to hold onto a closet full of items you never wear. If you haven’t worn it in a year, donate it!

2. Books

Books are often hard for people to part with, especially if they love to read. However, many times you’ll hang onto a book you haven’t read in years. These aren’t “old favorites” by any stretch of the imagination. They’re just taking up space in your home.

3. Past items

What do you have hiding away in your home that you haven’t look at in years? Old trophies? School paperwork? Comic books?

You’d be surprised at how many past items you hang onto without reason. Revisit them so you can let go of what you no longer have use for.

4. Kitchen gadgets

Kitchen gadgets accumulate over the years. While a few (mixer, toaster, microwave, coffeemaker) are essential, you likely have quite a few more that can be sold.

5. Sports and musical equipment

You wouldn’t be the first person who intended to pick up a hobby and just never stuck with it. Take a look at the sports and musical equipment in your home and see if you can re-home it either by selling or donating it.

6. Electronics

Electronics have been trickier and trickier to get rid of because you want to make sure they’re recycled properly. If your electronics are old enough that they cannot be sold, look for an electronics recycling center in your area.

7. Antiques

Antiques are collectible objects like pieces of furniture or works of art that have high value because of its age. You can determine if your antiques have value by researching a mark or signature on them. While downsizing, you may decide to auction off some of your antiques with Blue Book Auction.

8. Furniture

When you downsize, you often have less space for furniture. Consider what you’ll actually need in your new home. What do you have room for, and what can you give away to a good home?

If you’re looking to finally downsize your life, we can help. Our goal is to turn your assets into cash in a global market. Visit Blue Book Auction for more information about how you can use our services to help you in the downsizing process.