Thinkless Downsizing Services

When redecorating or repurposing spare bedrooms, consider selling the Area Rugs. Especially ones made of wool and in excellent condition - with labels from places like Pottery Barn. Doesn't much matter if the color is "trendy" or not - rugs are typically good sellers on popular sites like nextdoor or craigslist. Price to sell at 25%-40% of original purchase price. Best if from a Non-Smoking / No Pets Home though.

One of the biggest disappointments to clients is learning their collectible dolls have no resale value. All these beauties are porcelain and were made in the 1980's. Too recent to be considered vintage and too common to be considered a "find".

Every now and then a find IS a treasure worth selling! This set of "bobble head" Beatles - all original and in perfect condition - sold on eBay for $800. My client was thrilled! One of the advantages of working with me as your Downsizer - I will sell your treasures for you on eBay for a modest commission!

Cut glass - like this beautiful bowl - has no resale value. Doesn't matter the age, the weight or the size - no one buys clear glass anything. If you love a particular piece, keep it. Otherwise, donate to your favorite charity resale shop.

Wind-up Mantel Clocks are common family treasures that are often displayed but aren't kept running. Clocks need to run though to stay in good working condition and keep their resale value. Usually the cost to return a clock to good repair is equal to its resale price unless it's quite rare. Lost keys also reduce the resale potential of wind-up clocks. Keep the key safely stored by taping it to the bottom of the clock.

Are children your favorite cause for giving? Then consider donating household items, clothing and jewelry to Albertina Kerr's Resale Shop. All volunteer operated, so 100 percent of the proceeds help support Kerr's programs and services. Drop-offs accepted MON-FRI at 424 NE 22nd Avenue in Portland OR. See AlbertinasPlace.org for more details.

Jewelry is always a potential "Gift" item when downsizing. One client had several pieces of jewelry she purchased on a trip to Hong Kong and never has the occasion to wear. This pair of tear drop jade earrings with 14k gold settings has a timeless look - making them a very welcome gift.

When evaluating which items you must part with - and which to keep - do not overlook the possibility of GIFTING possessions selectively to family or close friends.

We say downsizing while the Swedes say DOSTADDNING. Which really translates to "clean up your life so your children don't have to".

Focus on ONE storage space and work ONE shelf, drawer or box at a time. Once you complete Step One (Eliminate), the remaining items are sorted into piles during Step Two: Evaluate.

Still Collectible! Salt n Pepper Shakers are popular for kitchen decor - especially the "fruits".

The last of the 4 kinds of stuff that can be discarded immediately during a "purge": the un-needed! Find it a new home with someone else. Donate to charity.