What a Mess! How to Sell Your Unwanted Items Before Moving

Moving homes in Australia can be quite an ordeal. You’re amidst the flurry of packing, surrounded by boxes, and there it is – that pile of unwanted items staring you down, adding to the moving mayhem. It’s a scenario many of us can relate to, so today, you’re diving into the practical side of selling unwanted goods before you make the big move. You’ll be exploring practical tips for how to efficiently sell your items, where to list them, how to price them as well as where to sell second-hand furniture.

Why bother at all to sell unwanted items before moving? Well, besides the obvious benefit of lightening your load, it’s also a chance to pocket some extra cash and make your move a tad smoother. And hey, who wouldn’t want a few extra dollars in their pocket, right?

What sells – Identifying your saleable items

Knowing what’s likely to fetch a fair price can save you time and effort, so whilst decluttering, don’t throw anything just yet. Instead, first, check what sells well online. Here are some examples that will surely help you fatten up your wallet.

• Electronics – smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, cameras;
• Furniture and home decor – vintage furniture, home appliances, home decor;
• Clothing and accessories – designer clothing, vintage and retro clothing, jewellery;
• Collectables and hobbies – vinyl records, comic books, toys and action figures;
• Sports and outdoor equipment – bicycles, fitness equipment, camping gear;
• Books and media – bestselling books, DVDs and Blu-rays, video games.

When it comes to electronics, it’s essential to ensure they’re in working condition. Include any necessary accessories or original packaging to maximise their value. Furniture, on the other hand, is often sought after by buyers, especially solid wood pieces that are in good condition.

In the realm of collectables, vintage vinyl records or a collection of comic books gathering dust can fetch a pretty penny from the right buyer. Antiques, artwork, and other collectables also have their niche markets, offering potential returns for sellers willing to seek out interested buyers.

There are, of course, those items that don’t sell well, such as:

• Outdated electronics – obsolete gadgets, broken devices;
• Worn-out furniture and home decor – damaged or heavily worn items;
• Fast-fashion clothing – low-quality, mass-produced items;
• Commonplace collectibles – items without rarity or demand;
• Bulky and expensive-to-ship Items – large furniture, heavy machinery;
• Perishable or consumable goods – food items, opened cosmetics.

Still, many of these items can find new homes through donations or recycling initiatives, so there is that.

Pricing your items competitively

When it comes to pricing second-hand goods, striking the right balance is key. You want to offer a competitive price that reflects the market value for used furniture and other items, but at the same time, you need to consider the items’ condition, demand, and current market rates. It’s difficult, but certainly not impossible.

• Research market value for used furniture – Look at listings for similar items to get a sense of their selling prices. Websites and online marketplaces can be valuable resources;
• Competitive pricing strategy – Consider factors such as the age, condition, and brand of the furniture when determining your asking price. Be realistic about the condition of your items and adjust your prices accordingly;
• Fair market value assessment – Take into account any wear and tear, damage, or imperfections when pricing your items. Transparency about the condition of your goods can help build trust with potential buyers and facilitate smoother transactions;
• Negotiation skills – Consider setting your prices slightly higher than your bottom line to allow room for negotiation while ensuring a fair deal for both parties.

Choosing where to sell your unwanted items

When it comes to selling unwanted items, exploring different platforms can help you reach a broader audience and maximise your chances of finding buyers. Check these online selling platforms in Australia to get a better idea:

Online marketplaces

• Gumtree – Gumtree is one of Australia’s largest online classifieds platforms, offering a wide range of categories for buying and selling items locally. Pros include its extensive reach and free listings, but cons may include limited buyer protections and the need for effective communication with potential buyers;
• eBay Australia – eBay is a global marketplace where users can buy and sell new and used items through auctions or fixed-price listings. Pros include its vast user base and built-in payment processing, while cons may include seller fees and competition from other listings;
• Inside Noosa – Inside Noosa is a local platform based in Noosaville, Sunshine Coast, where people can buy and sell furniture. Its physical showroom provides a unique selling opportunity for local sellers and buyers;
• The Shed at Palmwoods and The Shed at Cooroy – These local businesses in Palmwoods and Cooroy, QLD, offer avenues for buying and selling furniture within the community. While they may lack extensive online reach, they provide a convenient option for locals looking to sell or purchase furniture pieces;
• Scottys Trading – Scottys Trading operates in Gold Coast, specialising in second-hand furniture buying and selling. Their local presence may appeal to sellers and buyers seeking in-person transactions and personalised service;
• Two Design Lovers – this is a platform for buying and selling second-hand designer furniture across Australia. Their DIY selling option caters to sellers in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane metro areas, while sellers from other regions can explore selling possibilities by contacting them directly;
• Cash Converters – Cash Converters has stores across Australia and offers a convenient option for selling unwanted items. You can visit their stores or use the “What’s It Worth” form online to get an estimate for your items.

Suffice to say these are probably the best websites for selling stuff, but they are not your only options. The question “where is the best place to sell unused items?” can also find its answer in…

Local community boards and apps

Joining local Facebook groups, such as those dedicated to buying, selling, and trading in specific areas like Brisbane, can be highly effective. These groups often have active members looking for various items and offer a convenient platform for local sales and exchanges.

Local classifieds websites are also something worth checking out and let’s not forget local sales apps like Nextdoor app. They connect you with other residents within the same community.

Garage sales and flea markets

If you have the time, why not organise a garage sale? You can start by decluttering your home and gathering items you no longer need. Choose a date and advertise your sale through local classifieds, social media, and community boards. Display items neatly, price them competitively, and be prepared to negotiate with buyers.

In Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth people also host regular flea markets where vendors can sell a variety of goods, including vintage items, crafts, and collectibles. Research local flea markets in your area, book a stall in advance and prepare your merchandise for display.

Presentation matters – preparing your items for sale

It’s not enough that your items are well preserved and still in perfect working condition if they’re not presented properly. But what exactly does that mean and what should you do? If you’re wondering “How can I sell my belongings fast?”, well this is how:

Cleaning and repairs

Cleanliness and functionality are only one part of the equation, so check these cleaning tips for pre-sale:

• Launder clothing items – this involves washing them to remove dirt, stains, and odours, enhancing their visual appeal for potential buyers. Check the care labels on clothing items for specific laundering instructions regarding water temperature, washing cycles, and drying methods. Also, choose mild, non-abrasive detergents suitable for the fabric type to avoid damaging delicate materials or causing colour fading.
• Refurbishing old furniture – Start by thoroughly cleaning the furniture to remove dust, grime, and any built-up residue. Use appropriate cleaning products and techniques based on the material and condition of the furniture. Afterwards, inspect the furniture for any signs of damage and repair them as much as you can. If the furniture has worn or faded finishes, consider refinishing or restoring them to enhance their appearance.

Taking great photos

And here is the other part of the equation – great photos. Taking photos for online sales is not as easy as it sounds, and the little details such as light and composition play a huge role. If you’ve never done this before, then become more familiar with some product photography tips.

Utilize natural light and provide context to your items by staging them in appealing settings. For example, a vintage armchair. Instead of taking a photo of the chair against a blank wall indoors, you could stage it in a sunlit corner of your living room. Place a cosy throw blanket over the armrest, and add a small side table with a vase of fresh flowers next to it. This setup not only utilises natural light to highlight the chair’s features but also provides context by showing how it could fit into a cosy reading nook or a stylish living space.

As much as good light and composition are important, it’s just as important to be transparent about any flaws or imperfections in the goods. Photograph those as well. This will build trust with your potential buyers.

Creating effective listings

Writing descriptive titles and content

Writing effective ads involves writing descriptive titles and content that accurately represent the items for sale. Use persuasive language to entice potential buyers to click on your listing. Some examples of such phrases can be “Moving Out Sale: Your Chance to Save Big!” or “Last Chance to Grab Deals Before We Move!”.

Also, don’t underestimate keyword-rich product descriptions. Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases that potential buyers are likely to search for. Use descriptive language to highlight the item’s attributes, such as brand, size, colour, and condition.

Transparency about condition

Transparency regarding the condition of the items is essential to build trust with potential buyers and avoid future disputes. That’s why you need an item condition disclosure. Clearly describe any flaws, wear, or damage present on the item. Provide detailed descriptions and include photographs that accurately represent its condition.

Being honest about the item’s condition to manage buyer expectations and prevent dissatisfaction is the proper way to go.

Safe transaction practices

It’s crucial to prioritise secure payment methods to protect both yourself and potential buyers, so here is what you need to do.

Payment methods

Opt for secure payment methods like PayPal, Google Pay, PayID or Beem It. These payment methods and services offer secure, convenient, and reliable ways to send and receive money, make purchases, and conduct transactions online and in-person. They prioritise user privacy and security, employ advanced encryption technologies, and provide dispute resolution mechanisms to protect both buyers and sellers from fraudulent activities.

Stay vigilant to avoid scams when selling. Never send items until you have received full payment and verified its authenticity. Scammers may send fake payment confirmations to deceive you, so it’s essential to cross-check payment details with your payment provider to ensure the transaction is legitimate. Do not proceed with the transaction until you have confirmed that payment has been received and cleared.

Exchange logistics

Ensuring safe exchange locations and practices is essential to minimise risks during transactions. That’s why you should pick safe exchange locations. Examples are public, well-lit locations for in-person exchanges, such as shopping centres. It’s best to avoid secluded areas or late-night meetings to prioritise safety.

To protect yourself when selling bring a friend or family member along during exchanges, especially for high-value items. Trust your instincts and be cautious of any suspicious behaviour or requests.

Do you have second hand furniture to sell before moving out? How do you plan to do it? Let us know by leaving a comment!