By Shae Rozzi, Fox23 News
Decluttering and getting organized are common goals as we start a new year. The Better Business Bureau shared safe ways to make money on items you no longer want.
At a time when your holiday credit card bills are due and you’re putting away decorations anyway, you can keep on decluttering and try to sell items you no longer want to make some money.
Amie Mitchell, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Eastern Oklahoma, says to not just use any site.
“We highly recommend that you first check out the type of site you want to use, whether you’ll be reselling electronics or clothing or something different, make sure you pick the right site for your items,” said Mitchell.
She also says to know what your items are worth to get the most money for it, especially if you’re selling high dollar items like jewelry.
“If it is something like jewelry, you may want to have it appraised before you put it on sale online for anyone to possibly purchase. So do your research on the site. Do your research on the value of the items before you decide to get rid of them or sell them,” said Mitchell.
When it comes to selling seasonal items, the BBB says it’s best to wait until it’s relevant. Exercise equipment may sell quickly in January as people are working on their resolutions to get in shape.
If you’re selling items for the summer, wait until the spring.
For holiday items, you may want to wait until the fall, unless you just want to clear it out now for a low price.
“We recommend you use a credit card when at if at all possible. If it is an in person exchange, cash is fine. Make sure you inspect that item before you take it, but yes, credit card when at all possible.
Mitchell shared tips on how to use money transferring apps.
“So the electronic transfer apps, I would recommend that if you’re going to do that, exchange in person, when they hand you the item and you know it’s what you want, then exchange electronic funds, otherwise, be really cautious. This is one way that you can’t get your money back,” said Mitchell.
If you’re not comfortable having someone come to your house or going to their home, you can go to your local police department and meet up in the parking lot, or other places where security cameras are in use.
If you’re having to ship an item to a buyer, make sure you do so with a tracking number and require a signature if it’s something of high value.
