GON Reader Question
#1
Decluttering Old Slides
Do you have any information about how to tackle decluttering slides and photos from parents who are gone? I suppose scanning is the best thing and I’d love more ideas. I continue to love your material. Thanks for all you do.
-- Judy
Skoglund
Maria's Response
Hi Judy,
Yes, scanning is an excellent way to preserve old photos and slides. Invest in a good quality scanner. When scanning, choose the highest resolution to ensure the best image quality.
Alternately, consider using a professional scanning service, especially if you have a large collection and limited time. Some popular ones are LegacyBox, iMemories, and ScanMyPhotos.
That being said, only digitize the slides that you truly feel are worth it...those that hold special memories. To more easily see what's on your slides, use an inexpensive
slide viewer.
If you want to get rid of any slides, contact your local recycling provider in town first to
determine if they are recyclable or not.
GON
Reader Question #2
Daily Checklist for Taking Meds and Exercising
I am looking for a daily checklist for taking meds, exercising, etc. Thank you!
-- Joyce
Bein
Maria's Response
Hi Joyce,
Do
you have my Easy Organizer? It's an easy-to-use resource to help you keep track of your meds, exercising, and a TON of other topics. I highly recommend you get yourself a copy!
GON Reader Question #3
Getting the Most Money Out of Vintage Items
I'm trying to figure out how to get the most money out of vintage items. Is it best to sell to an antique store, take to auction, or sell things myself? I'm struggling to figure out values to sell items myself.
While I've sold things (things I bought) on Marketplace and Craigslist, I've never done so on eBay or similar.
Does it depend on the item...quilts, books, etc? When living in another area, I sold some things to an antique store and took others to auction.
I'm at the point where I just need to get things done, but my time is limited.
-- Name withheld from Caldwell, ID
Maria's Response
Hi Friend,
The decision of whether to sell your items to an antique store, take them to an auction, or sell them yourself (in person or on eBay) depends on several factors, including the nature of the items, your expertise, your time availability, and your financial goals.
You already mentioned that your time is limited. With this in mind, while selling items yourself would likely bring in the most money, it's not going to be possible if you don't have the time to do this properly.
Unfortunately, making the most money and having the least time to do so usually doesn't go hand-in-hand.
Antique stores typically offer immediate cash or a check for your items and you don't need to worry about marketing, negotiations, or finding buyers. These store owners are knowledgeable about antiques and can assess the value of your items accurately. That being said, antique stores need to make a profit, so they will likely offer less money compared to what you might get through
other methods.
Auction houses have potential for higher prices. Auctions can attract serious collectors and enthusiasts, leading to competitive bidding and higher sale
prices. They also have specialists who can properly assess and market your items. Of course, auction houses charge fees for listing, marketing, and a commission on the final sale price and there are no guarantees that your items will sell or that they will achieve the desired price.
When selling eBay, you have complete autonomy over pricing, listing details, and the entire selling process...plus a wide range of potential buyers from all over the world. That being said, managing online listings, handling customer inquiries, packaging, shipping, and addressing any issues can be labor- and time-intensive.
Plus, you have to learn about online selling, including pricing strategies, effective listings, and shipping logistics. Selling on eBay is best for individuals with the time, knowledge, patience, and willingness to handle the online selling
process.
In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to your question. You might even choose a combination of these methods for different items in your collection to maximize your
returns and minimize hassle.
One other important factor I want to mention: Be careful about getting overwhelmed...especially because no matter which option you choose, this
process can be overwhelming if you have a lot to sell. Choose ONE or TWO items at a time and focus on selling those first. Good luck!
