There's Money in Your Clutter

Spring cleaning can be daunting, but one great reason to get your home in shape is the extra money items you no longer need can bring. Old furniture, clothing that no longer fits, toys your kids have grown out of, and even sports equipment you no longer use can help you earn some cash while creating more space in your home.




Clearing the Clutter



First we need to go through every room in our home and de-clutter. Don't get frustrated just yet if that looks like an impossible task! Start with one room and spend just 15 minutes a day. Follow the 3 simple rules of de-cluttering, first throw out any trash, then separate items that can be sold or donated, then sort and group the rest of your belongings so you can organize the room. Next we'll separate the items you have decided to sell or donate to get as much money as possible.



Ebay - Ebay is great for items that are worth a lot, are brand new, or that can be easily shipped. Ebay gives you the chance to really tell interested buyers about the item, and opens up the sale to people across the country rather than just in your neighborhood. If you've never sold on Ebay before, a professional organizer can help you or an Ebay auction assistant.



Craigslist - Craigslist is great for larger items like furniture or electronics that can't be shipped easily or inexpensively, and for smaller items that aren't worth much or need work to bring them back to life. While we are trying to earn money by clearing out clutter, you can also use Craigslist for those items you planned on trashing by listing them for free. You never know what someone else can do with your trash!



Etsy - If you have a lot of craft materials, create a lot of artwork, or have vintage items, Etsy is a great place to sell items. All of the items are typically hand made or vintage, so if you have been keeping items from a parents estate, have a collection of old maps or handkerchiefs, or an abundance of postcards you've created yourself, you'll find a community of shoppers that are looking for unique items just like yours.



Consignment Shop - Local consignment shops are great for brand name clothing, and some shops specialize in sports equipment to help you get rid of old hockey or ski equipment you've outgrown or no longer use.



Garage Sale - Finally there is the tried and true garage sale. If you have enough items, or have family members or neighbors that will hold a sale with you, it can be a great way to earn a few hundred dollars. Garage sales work best for smaller, inexpensive items that you aren't concerned with getting a good return on what you paid for the item. Mismatched glasses, pots and pans, gardening tools, books, generic clothing and other odds and ends go quickly at a garage sale if you've priced them right.



Guest Post By: ClutterGeeks.com - Professional organizer helping reduce and eliminate clutter in Philadelphia and Bucks County PA