When Your Family Doesn’t Want Your Stuff

Letting go of a lifetime of belongings is often the most challenging part of moving. Unfortunately, the market for second-hand household goods is flooded because, for the first time, we have two generations downsizing. The Silent Generation (78-95 years) and the Boomers (59-77 years) are emptying their nest and choosing a simpler lifestyle.

When we were growing up, fine China and crystal were displayed in a China cabinet, along with collectibles and mementos. A lovely table was set for special occasions and gatherings. Now very few families are having elaborate dinners; instead trading in the formalities for BBQs, casual dinnerware, and sometimes paper plates.

When it comes to downsizing, the first step is to start with a plan. Where are you going? What’s realistic for your lifestyle? What fits and feels most comfortable?

Most prefer keeping things in the family and passing heirlooms to loved ones. However, younger generations are opting for more minimalist lifestyles and purchasing more “disposable” items…politely refusing these gifts and used furniture.

Consider identifying the most important items to keep and then share their stories. When family members understand the significance, they may be more willing to make room for your treasured items. Another option is to use a platform like Artifacts to photograph and share the things you aren’t keeping, or you can photograph and display these items in a book to share with family.

Next, identify what items are of value that may be sold. Try the app Google Lens where you can photograph the item and get an idea of its value. I am often asked about my opinion of garage sales. My advice…. When deciding what and how to sell, it’s essential to consider your timeline and energy. If you love garage sales, have one, but they take a tremendous amount of time and energy for often little pay-off.

If you have a short period of time and limited energy, a liquidator will offer a whole home clear-out, considering what can be sold versus the labor cost to pack up and remove everything that remains. Of course, whether you’ll make or pay money depends on the quality of what you have. That said, it’s usually the easiest way to go when you have a short timeline.

You might be eligible for an estate sale when you have a longer timeline and if your home has enough items of value. Traditional estate sales usually require a onemonth window and at least one week after you’ve moved to prep an empty house. Estate sale companies work on commission, which ranges from 40-60%. If you have items of significant value or collections, you can sell them through eBay or an auctioneer specializing in the category.

Consider consignment if you are uncomfortable with strangers in your home and the above options don’t work. However, because consignment and charity shops are inundated, they have become very selective about the inventory they are willing to carry. The first step is to inquire whether the shop will take your items. You will be responsible for getting the things to the shop, and followup is necessary to check on any proceeds from a sale.

If you are comfortable using a smartphone and don’t mind strangers in your home, you might try an online auction. This requires less time than a traditional estate sale and exposes your belongings to a wider net. To conduct an online estate sale, you’ll need at least two weeks to photograph and prepare the auction before pick-up day. You can do it yourself with an online platform like MaxSold. The items are paid for in advance, and the pick-up is usually done in a couple of hours.

If you have only a handful of things to sell, Smartphones or online Apps are a great option.

• Letgo: Best for quick sales

• Facebook Marketplace: Best for reaching a wider audience

• Nextdoor : Best for local sales

• OfferUp: Best for buyers

• CPlus for Craigslist (App): Also great for reaching a wider audience

• Poshmark : Best for selling designer items

• Tradesy: Also great for selling designer items

At best, your belongings are worth about 10% of what you paid. Some people prefer to donate their items. You can find a list of charities that pick up on our website or call for a hardcopy handout.

Letting go of the idea that everything you own must be valued and sold for a profit will free up tremendous mental and emotional energy. It can also free up your time to focus on the thing that is likely in high demand and could be sold for top dollar, like your house!

If you are downsizing your belongings and looking forward to a smaller, more manageable space, there is help! Move Manager companies handle all aspects of your move, from floor planning for the new space to the clearing out of your home, all without the stress of doing it on your own.

Jamie Shapiro owns Silver Linings Transitions, a San Diego-based senior and specialty move management company that assists clients who are rightsizing (downsizing) to smaller homes, senior communities or decluttering and organizing in their existing homes. Silver Linings Transitions have partnerships with many realtors where all or most of their services are provided at no additional cost, saving you thousands of dollars and time. For more information, call (760) 522-1624 or email info@silverliningstransitions.com. Visit us at www. silverlingstransitions.com