One of the things I like least about being a move manager is having to tell older adults and their families that the things their loved ones have collected over the years have decreased in value and the market has become flooded with furniture, china, crystal, silverplate flatware, and collectible figurines.
Yes, people are buying them, but they are not paying retail or even what the selling price was many moons ago. You're lucky if you get flea-market prices! Don't get me wrong, there are things have have retained or gone up in value, but those are few and far between. (Like the Chinese bowl found at a garage sale that sold for $2.2 million.)
It really stinks having to tell clients that the furniture that looks so lovely in their home (that they paid good money to have reupholstered or refinished) really isn't worth it for someone to come pick up and try to resell. And with today's fuel prices, the dealer can't make enough on the furniture to cover the fuel. Even the antique dealers are finicky about the things they want....is has to be over 100 years old to even peak their interest!
"But what about the china, crystal and silver plate displayed so nicely in my china hutch? Certainly someone will want that!" Unfortunately, not for the price you think they should pay.
Today's generation doesn't want to hand wash china and crystal or polish silver. In fact most "we buy gold" places don't want to deal with silver plate items because there isn't enough silver in it when melted down.
Many people invested in collectibles, anticipating they would sell them when they retired and contribute to their nest egg. "I should be able to get a lot for my Hummels." Again, someone will buy them but probably only for pennies on the dollar. People who used to collect them are dying and there aren't too many people around who want them these days. Here's an article about 9 Completely Worthless Collectibles.
Every day, 10,000 people turn 65 and are retiring. Plus, people are living longer. If they can afford it, many are downsizing to smaller accommodations. Here's an article that talks about Baby Boomers Downsizing and looking to sell their stuff.
The other reality older adults have to face is the fact that their kids will probably not want their stuff. It's not their style. They don't have room in their home. It's too costly to ship.
So, what is one to do when one is looking to get sell their things? Be realistic!
Estate liquidation companies can help with selling their things. But it is the public that determines the selling price. And they will have to pay (by way of commission) to sell their stuff. Some people are able to make enough to cover their moving expenses, but for many, there is value in just emptying a house, ec.
Sorry to be Realistic Ruth (or Debbie Downer), but it is the reality of it all.
For more information on how A Stress-Less Transition, LLC can help you or an older adult, please visit our website.
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