Think you have too much stuff? Keep it if it has emotional or monetary value.

As a Realtor I go into several homes every week and the one common thing I find often is that everybody who hasn't moved in the last 3 years has a lot of stuff. Keeping things is great if it has emotional value to you. But if you're only keeping it for its monetary value, read on.

Most things has very little monetary value unless they were very expensive to buy or very rare in the first place. In 2018 they also have to be aesthetic or cool.

Collectibles are only of value to the generation to whom they mean something. And that's a changing demographic.

Area rugs go through trends, right now orientals are waning in popularity and geometric patterned rugs are in. Hand-made rugs made of good materials will always have value, but for anything else it's best to just use them and enjoy them or pass them along/sell to someone else who could use and enjoy them.

Furniture by a known furniture designer usually has collectible value, e.g. Eames or Stickley.

Breakables, older china and glass e.g. Carnival Glass that was collectible 15 years ago are out. Keep them if they have meaning to you. The modern generations have little use for them.

Things that are hung on walls and have collections in them are out. A couple floating shelves with a choice collection of pieces you really enjoy is the way to go these days.

Ornate typewriters from the 30's and 40's are now an $8 yard sale item. They have almost no value because everyone held onto them. Same applies to sewing machines from that era.

Upright pianos are popular with young families but can be bought for a song or even free if someone is willing to haul them away. They're a stager's nightmare.

Rotate your artwork and once a year. Go through yours and sell/donate ones you are tired of and will never use. We're all tempted by souvenir paintings, bring them home and if they never see the light of day, send them along to someone else to enjoy.

Decorative art, home decor and framed artwork are very easy to sell. Cookware and collectibles not so much.

In summary, Once in a while go around and look at your stuff and think about sending it along to someone else who would use or enjoy it. Keep it if it's of utility, emotional or monetary value.

Gangbuster Market? Yep. So buying or selling now more than ever you need a real estate agent at the top of their game. Call me at 978-580-1069 to talk about your needs.
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