by Meadow Lark

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: June 25, 2009

Collecting has been fun for you through the years, but it may be time to consider selling your collection. It is time for others to enjoy your items, especially if it means cash in your pocket.

The first step, after you have made the decision to let go of your collection, is to research the prices of similar items. If you would rather talk to people than begin an online search, simply visit a nearby antique mall and ask questions of the dealers. Most dealers are happy to talk with you and in some cases, may make a decent offer for your items. As you browse the antiques, keep your eyes opened, as well as your thoughts. In today's market, items may not sell for the amount you would like to receive. You will learn through any antique dealer that condition and rarity matters most to potential buyers.

The internet is also a very valuable research tool for today's collectors. You can begin by visiting ebay.com, goantiques.com, or rubylane.com. Researching on ebay is rather simple. If you click on the "advanced search" feature, type a specific description for one of your items, be sure to click the completed items box and hit the search button, your world may begin to open to new possibilities. I like to also use the sort feature in the advanced search section of ebay. It enables me to see the highest dollar amount that has recently been paid for any given item. You may be astounded at how much money has been paid for similar collectibles. You may also learn that there are numerous items just like yours that did not sell on ebay.

When you have finished your research, you must weigh the pros and cons of selling your items online. Picture taking, description writing, pricing, and shipping of your pieces can take much more time than many people realize. If you decide that you are short on time, there are other options. In many large cities, there are at least one or two "I Sold It On Ebay" stores. These stores do the research, picture taking and shipping for you, but they will also want to take a percentage of your sales for their time and effort.

If you decide, instead, that you would like to sell your collection on ebay or another online store yourself, you will find listing items may take patience on your part. It takes a considerable amount of time, if you are a beginner, to create better pictures and write decent descriptions. Generally, you will find the extra time and effort is worth it.

If you have been a collector for a few years, you have probably attended flea markets or special trade shows. For example, in my area there is a vintage fashion group that holds special shows twice a year. I always look forward to these shows because inevitably I will see items I could have never imagined. Since I am a regular attendee and have purchased some lovely pieces of antique fashion items, I know that when I become overloaded with my own items, which can happen to any true collector, I can offer some pieces of my clothing collection to a couple of the dealers I have met at these shows. They usually make decent offers, and I know my items that are in good condition will be appreciated. There are glass shows, postcard shows, and numerous online groups where you can meet some interesting people and perhaps, even trade some of your items.

If you decide not to sell your collection, just relax and enjoy your items, trade them with friends, or give them to family members on special occasions. Afterwards, wouldn't it be fun to visit the weekend flea market in the nearest town? You never know what you might find!

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