We all have them – those items tucked away in closets, cupboards, garages, or storage bins. They’re still in great shape, maybe even expensive, and definitely too good to give away. So instead, we hold onto them, thinking we’ll sell them one day but that day rarely comes. If you’re ready to finally let go, here are some easy, low-effort ways to sell or donate valuable items that won’t be overwhelming.
Feel Like It’s Too Good to Give Away? Start Here
Letting go doesn’t mean letting things go to waste. The key is finding outlets where your items are valued – either through easy resale or meaningful donation. Whether it’s furniture, clothes, home decor, or tools, there are better options than just piling it in the garage.
1. Use a Local Auction House for Furniture and Collectibles
Many auction houses now handle estate-style sales for the average household. If you have furniture, tools, vintage decor, or other high-quality items, an auction house will often pick them up, photograph them, and sell them for a commission from the final sale.
- Why it works: No listing, no negotiating, no strangers at your house. You simply hand it off.
- Tip: Search for local estate auction companies or consignment auctions that specialize in home goods.
2. Try Boutique Consignment or Online Resale for Clothes & Decor
While consignment stores are less common, there are still great options-especially online or in specialty markets. Designer clothes, vintage accessories, and small furnishings often do well in curated local shops or digital consignment platforms.
- Online options: ThredUp, The RealReal, Kidizen
- Furniture & Decor: Try Chairish or AptDeco (This may only make sense if it is a niche, high value item)
- Why it works: they do the listing, marketing, and often the shipping for you.
3. Hire a Friend Who Loves Decluttering and Split the Profits
If you’re overwhelmed by the task of sorting and selling, consider hiring a friend who’s great at it. Offer them a percentage of whatever they help sell (30-40% is common).
- Why it works: They enjoy the process, and you finally get it done-without the mental clutter.
- Tip: Set expectations up front and keep it fun – this can be a great motivator.
4. Donate to a Cause That Matters (and Offers Pickup + Tax Deductions)
If something still feels to good to give away, consider donating it somewhere with purpose. Many organizations offer tax-deductible receipts and will pick up larger items.
Try These:
- Habitat for Humanity ReStore – furniture, appliances, tools
- DAV – clothing, household goods
- The Arc – supports individuals with disabilities
- Local women’s shelters
- Why it works: You’re helping someone directly, clearing your space, and receiving a tax benefit in the process.
5. Simplify with Facebook Marketplace Bundles
For things that are worth selling but not worth listing individually, try grouping them into bundles (like “Farmhouse Kitchen Decor – $25 for all). Offer porch pickup only and use one basic description with several pictures of all the items.
- Why it works: No haggling, no need for dozens of listings, and easy to move things fast.
- Tip: List early in the week and relist after 48 hours for better visibility. If items haven’t sold after two weeks, consider reducing the cost of donating to a worth charity.
Holding Onto Things That Feel Too Good To Give Away Is Costing More Than You Think
If you’ve been holding onto something because it’s too good to give away, remember this: the real waste is letting it sit unused. Whether you sell it, donate it, or let a friend help you get it out the door, you’ll create space – not just in your home, but in your life.
Leave a Reply