Need some quick cash?

As they say, "one man's trash is another man's treasure."

Experiencing periods of financial strife has happened to almost everyone. When it happens, it can bring on feelings of worry and anxiety. But one way to make some quick money is to sell some belongings you don't use or no longer want. From big-ticket items to clothing and tchotchkes, you might be surprised what you can sell to thicken your wallet. 

Follow these strategies to make the most from your sales:

1. Consider selling almost everything.

Make a list of the items you'll sell room by room and jot down reasonable prices to ask. Don't worry; you won't miss them once they're gone. Are your rooms over-stuffed with too much furniture? Sell your least favorite pieces. Sell that extra recliner in the back bedroom that's piled with junk. Sell the junk on it, too! 

You don't use your bread maker anymore? Sell it to someone that will. What about the wrong size clothing or those you dislike? If you don't wear them, sell them. I use Thredup to clear out my closets every so often. It's an easy-to-use online consignment shop. To get started, visit the website and request a cleanout bag.

Remember to sell those long-unused items in your garage as well.

2. Create ads.

For larger items worth more money, write quick ads to sell them. I've had a lot of success selling stuff on Facebook Marketplace but Craigslist, OfferUp, and Letgo are also good resources.

Take a look at how ads are written by others on the sites. It won't take long to create several. Here are some examples:

  • Sofa & chair, black leather, 3 tables, excellent condition. $325
  • 60 Foot ladder for sale, $150
  • Nicole Miller strapless dress, $25

Depending on the site you use, you can select how you prefer interested people contact you, either by messenger, phone number or e-mail. Also, you can upload a picture of the item for sale, which I highly recommend because it will help the item sell more quickly.

3. Have a yard sale for the smaller items.

For your items that are too small for Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, put together a yard sale. If you don't have enough items for a sale on your own, get together with your neighbors to share in one.

4. Gather your gold.

Look through your old jewelry and separate pieces you don't like or wear anymore. Cufflinks, tie clasps, pierced earring backs, bracelets or the like can bring in some cold, hard cash. Take your items to the local gold exchange to see what you can get for them.

When selling your gold, be sure to follow safety protocol. Avoid allowing anyone to leave the room with your jewelry. If a staff member at the gold exchange says the scale is in the back, go to another shop or state you'll not let the gold out of your sight. If the place is reputable, this will not be an issue as the scale will be located on the counter for all to observe.

5. Collect cash in a large envelope.

Obtain a large envelope and label it "Sales Profits." Accumulate the money from your sales into it and then deposit the profits into your bank account. This way, you won't be tempted to spend the cash as you receive it and you can designate it for whatever purpose you need.

Selling items you no longer want or need is a great way to pave the way for your new and improved financial life. Make your list, post ads, gather your gold and get that envelope ready to start generating cash quickly.

 

If you need additional ideas on how to generate cash quickly, join the conversation in the Watch Her Thrive Facebook group. 

 

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