As Professional Organizers, we’re always gently nudging our clients to purge the unwanted and non-purposeful possessions that grace their spaces. Although contributing to charities of our choice is always a gratifying option, sometimes it’s nice to have a little return investment on belongings we no longer need. So how do we decide what’s worth donating and what we might be able to make a little money on? It’s simple really, let us show you how to break down the decision making process when it comes to Consigning, Selling or Donating.
Clothing
What to Consign:
Consignment stores such as Flair Trade and Extoggery typically accept mid-high end, excellent quality pieces that others would buy now – think on-trend and in season.  Prices are usually set at about 1/4 to 1/3 of the original price tag and you get paid if and when your items sell at about 40-50% of the sale price.  Vintage items that were in fashion 20-30 years ago are a slightly different beast and can go to specialized consignment stores. Toronto is full of such stores that will happily take these items off your hands, just make sure you do your research and choose one that is reputable and has terms that you’re comfortable with.
What to Sell:
Unlike Consignment stores where you get paid if and when your items sell, resale stores such as Kind Exchange and Plato’s Closet pay 15-30% of THEIR resale price upfront. Mid range brands such as H&M, Zara, Forever 21 and Gap do well here.  Just like consignment shops, clothing must be laundered, on-trend and in excellent condition.
Besides resale and consignment stores Varage Sale, Facebook Groups, Kijiji and ebay are a few other avenues to explore when deciding to cash in on your high value items. Keep in mind though that you will need to spend a good deal of time pricing your item(s) accordingly, taking pictures, posting and responding to inquiries.
What to Donate:
Items that are less expensive and out of style, but are still in good shape, can be donated to a variety of local charities – a couple of our favorites include New Circles and Dress for Success.  A good rule of thumb is to only donate things that you would be comfortable giving to someone you know.  Items in rough shape should be disposed of or better yet, donated to stores such as H&M’s Garment Recycling Program where you’ll receive a $5 voucher for every bag you bring in (max. 2 vouchers per exchange).
Furniture
What to Consign:
When considering placing furniture on consignment, it’s much like clothing. Condition, era and quality all play a role in whether or not it will be accepted under the store’s terms and conditions.  Terms vary between vendors, but you’re typically looking at a 45-55% return on the sale price if and when your item sells.  If you’re downsizing to a new condo and require smaller pieces or visa versa, thean this is a great option for you. Remember to take pictures and measurements of your pieces to send to different shops to see who is interested and will provide the greatest return.  Some of our favorites include Of Things Past, The Singing Lady and The Millionaire’s Daughter.
What to Sell:
When it comes to furniture, we’re often looking for a quick sell to make room for new pieces or to prepare for a move.  Good quality, mid-low end furniture that you may not be able to consign will no doubt go quickly when posted online.  Be sure to advise the buyer that they are responsible for picking up the item.
What to Donate:
If you don’t want to spend the time cleaning, photographing and posting your furniture for sale, consider calling a charity that will come and pick up your piece(s).  The Furniture Bank is hands-down our favorite for this!  For a small pick up fee and a tax receipt in return, you’ll be helping the formerly homeless, women and children escaping abusive situations and newcomer families and refuges create a new home.
Just like clothing, keep the condition in mind and discard the pieces that have so lovingly seen their day.
Household Items
What to Consign:
What can we say – times are changing and the new generation is substituting fine china, crystal, silverware and intricate chandeliers for dishwasher safe materials and modern designs.  However, some savvy collectors are still looking for such pieces in consignment stores such as The Elegant Garage Sale and Elle and Eve.  Just like clothing and furniture, your return on such items ranges from 45-55% of the stores sale price.  Certain patterns and manufacturers are more highly sought after than others, while complete sets are bound to give you more return as well.  If you’re unsure whether or not your pieces are worth consigning, look for the manufactures stamp and inquire. Stamps can usually be found as follows: China – the back of the dinner plate, Crystal – the stemmed water goblet and Silverware – front or back of the fork.
When to Sell:
There are always bargain hunters looking for a deal on good condition, household items such as dishware, small appliances, artwork and accessories.  While selling your items online is one way to go it’s very time consuming for minor return.
If you’re downsizing or doing a major purge – a garage sale or online auction such as Max Sold are both quick and efficient options to turn your items into cash.
When to Donate:
If you’re not concerned about selling your items, but simply want to ensure they go to a good cause, there are numerous charities willing to accept your good quality, small household goods.  Check out link to places to donate blog for some of our favorites.
The decision is yours. Â Just be sure to consider the items condition, style and most importantly the value of return vs. your time before deciding which direction to take.
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