Have you inherited some antiques, collectibles, or other items and now you’re wondering what to do with them? When we inherit items, we often inherit a sense of responsibility for that item. We want to make sure we make the best decision.
Should we keep and treasure the items? Should we sell them or use them for a good cause?
Unfortunately, there is no right or wrong way to manage the items we are given. Each situation varies depending on who has passed down the item, and why. That’s what this blog is for. We want to help you come to that conclusion all on your own.
Research and Appraise: The first step
Before you make any decision, do your research on the item(s) and have it appraised. It’s important to know what you have and what it’s worth. Sometimes we have a hidden gem. However, in most cases, we find that what we inherit isn’t actually worth much.
Remember, just because it’s old, doesn’t mean it is necessarily worth a lot of monetarily.
The purpose of researching is to know what you have, but don’t let it be the ultimate deciding factor. Don’t make the mistake of selling something simply because you find out it’s worth something. You may end up regretting your decision later.
What to do with your inherited belongings?
Everyone is different and the belongings passed down to them can vary from priceless family heirlooms to worthless old toys. At the end of the day, the decision is up to you, but we can at least help you weigh your options.
Keep them
If there is something near and dear to your heart, or just looks really interesting, then keep it. We can’t keep everything, but if it has value to you, and you have a place for it then know that there’s nothing wrong with keeping it.
Sell them
It can be hard to part ways with something that belonged to your loved one and you might feel a little selfish selling what you have inherited. In these moments we need to step back and ask ourselves somequestions. Are you emotionally attached to the item? Would the person passing down the itembe upset with you for getting rid of it? Would the item mean more to someone else than yourself? Does it add value to your life? Things take on meaning for us when they have an attachment. But sometimes the belongings passed down from our loved ones were just stuff to them and nothing more. To you, it could be an antique dresser, to them it could have just been an old dresser they’ve always owned. Selling antiques or collectibles is a reasonable consideration.
If you’re thinking of selling your antiques, there are a couple of ways of doing it.
Each of these options has its own pros and cons which we discussed in more detailin a recent blog post.
Give themaway
Sometimes, the most impactful thing you can do with inherited items is to givethem away. Some items have no monetary value but could have sentimental value for someone. You can donate belongings to a museum to hold on display or give them to someone else who has a greater attachment to the items. Some individuals will even donate to a charity so that they can auction the items off in order to raise money. Donations are a great way to honor the person who passed the items down.
Take your time in making the decision
Losing a loved one can weigh heavily emotionally. It can all feel like a lot at times. If you’re wondering what the best course of action is, and you have the ability to wait, then take some time to make the decision.
Speak with family and friends, do your research, and take some time to think about it.
When the time is right, you can decide the best course of action.
FAQs
You can donate belongings to a museum to hold on display or give them to someone else who has a greater attachment to the items. Some individuals will even donate to a charity so that they can auction the items off in order to raise money. Donations are a great way to honor the person who passed the items down.
What is the best way to value antiques? ›
Harrison recommends seeking a certified appraiser's valuation before taking the item to a local antiques or collectibles dealer. An appraiser is more likely to give a fair judgment because there's no conflict of interest; it's a violation of professional ethics to offer to buy an item he has appraised.
How do I sell a large antique collection? ›
How to Sell Your Antiques
- SELL TO A DEALER OUTRIGHT: Thing to keep in mind here is that you want to work with someone who as earned your trust. ...
- SELL ON CONSIGNMENT: Usually a consignment shop or antique shop soliciting consignments will work on a percentage basis.
Where to Sell Antiques Online
- eBay is one of the most well-known resale platforms on the internet. ...
- Craigslist is one of the early listing platforms back from the days of the old internet. ...
- Vinted is an online platform focused on allowing its users to sell second-hand items.
Online: You can sell your collection on online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, or Etsy. You'll need to create a seller account, list your items for sale, and handle shipping and customer service. Local market: You can sell your collection at flea markets, thrift stores, or consignment shops.
How to find out what vintage items are worth? ›
Contact your local antique store to discuss appraisal options. Appraisers should still be certified by a national appraisal board. They often offer insurance replacement valuations or fair-market valuations, but they also offer less-expensive services such as verbal-approximations.
How to get old items valued? ›
Talk to Experts
As well as experts you might encounter online, free appraisals and valuations are part of the industry. Visit your local antiques store to talk to a dealer and try to find out if there are any specialists in the type of item you're selling in the local area.
How to get rid of old collectibles? ›
There are many ways to sell your collection: online, at a garage sale, or through an auction house or flea market. See any money you make as a bonus as you part with your collection. Even if the collection has decreased in monetary value, the sentimental value may be equally important to the new owner.
What are the best vintage items to sell? ›
Popular vintage items include jewelry, clothes, accessories, household items, pop culture memorabilia, postcards, photos, vinyl records, cassette and VHS tapes, books, lamps, gadgets of 80s and 90s, toys.
Where to sell historical items? ›
RR Auction is the leader in historical and presidential collectibles. We achieve top dollar and record-breaking results for our consignors, due to our elite buyers who are passionate about history and growing their collections.
I can report that Beanie Babies, Barbie dolls, and baseball cards aren't worth anywhere near what you hoped. Most of the baseball, football, and basketball cards in my collection aren't worth more than a few pennies. It's nice to know though. Google Lens is a free app for iOS and Android devices.
What is the best time of year to sell antiques? ›
The spring is usually considered a much better time to buy and sell antiques. Expect to see a strong market in May and June.
How do I sell my antiques privately? ›
Sell Privately Online
RubyLane, eBay and LoveAntiques are popular sites for buying and selling antiques. Etsy and Facebook Marketplace are also growing in popularity. When selling antiques online, ensure you provide plenty of detailed information about the item along with high-quality pictures displaying the item.
How to find the value of collectibles? ›
It's best to work with a professional certified by the Appraisers Association of America, the International Society of Appraisers, or the American Society of Appraisers. After completing the appraisal, the appraiser will give you a written report explaining the item, the valuation procedure, and its current value.
What is the fastest way to sell antiques? ›
The best way to sell antiques is through a combination of online and offline channels. Online platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Ruby Lane provide a wide audience reach, while antique marketplaces and auctions offer opportunities for face-to-face interactions with potential buyers.
How to price antiques? ›
There are a number of factors to consider when determining how much your antiques are worth. Original maker's marks, condition of the item, age, and rarity are some of the main features that will help you figure out if the item you have is worth a lot or not.
Is there an app to identify and value antiques? ›
ValueMyStuff offer expert art, antique and collectable valuations and appraisals, spanning more than 60 categories, including contemporary art, jewellery, classic cars, watches, furniture, books, pop memorabilia and much more too.
How do I find the value of antiques for free? ›
Many antique stores and auction houses will give you a free verbal appraisal of an item in the hope that you will sell the piece through them. This is a good way to learn a bit about the item's value, but you need to be cautious.
What is the best online antique valuation? ›
Antique Vault – The online valuation experts.
