Sorting through your belongings and getting rid of stuff can be a hugely satisfying experience, but it’s also a lot of work and can create a bit of a mess initially. It’s always easier to get through a chore like this if you know it’s worth your time; and it can be if you follow the below guidelines for selling common unwanted items. You may be able to make much more of a profit than you realised and you could be very surprised at what people will pay money for – to your ultimate benefit.
Before looking at our top tips for making money out of your unwanted items, it’s important to remember two things:
- Check the value – you never know what’s worth money. If you’re clearing items that you’re not 100% familiar with, it’s always worth checking to see what price similar things are selling for.
- Sell smart – there are many ways to turn a profit. It’s not just eBay and car boot sales anymore – you could make much more money if you sell in the right place.
Get rid of old or unworn jewellery
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Gold, silver or platinum jewellery
Any jewellery piece which is made from precious metals – gold, silver or platinum – will hold intrinsic value thanks to the material used. No matter the design or the condition of a piece, you will be able to sell it with ease if you know where to go. Here at H&T Pawnbrokers we buy gold and other precious metals in-store and online (via post). You don’t need an appointment; simply walk in to any of our 247 UK-wide stores and we can help. -
Jewellery with precious stones
If you have unwanted jewellery that incorporates genuine diamonds or other precious stones (such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds etc.), then these are very likely to hold value. It’s always a good idea to get an expert opinion and a proper valuation so that you know what you have, as it’s very easy to replicate the look of precious stones. You can get a free valuation with us here H&T Pawnbrokers – simply pop in-store. -
Costume jewellery
While costume jewellery generally holds little intrinsic value (as pieces tend to be made from cheaper materials), the design and condition of the piece can ensure it’s worth more than its component parts. If you have costume jewellery in good condition, consider selling similar pieces together in a bundle or listing separate, more on-trend pieces on a selling app. -
Broken jewellery
Broken jewellery can still be sold – particularly if it’s made of a precious metal such as gold, silver or platinum. This is because these metals can easily be melted down and repurposed into new items. The value lies in the weight of the metal, and not necessarily the condition of the piece.
For other types of broken jewellery, you may be able to remove its component parts such as beads or charms and sell them separately.
Get rid of CDs, DVDs & old electronics
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Out of date, broken electronics
Broken electronics are difficult to make any money from, but there are some gadget recycling companies who are willing to pay cash, such as Cash in Your Gadgets and Recyclezone. This is by far the best way to get rid of electronics, as their important components can be recycled and the rest is disposed of safely.
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CDs and DVDs
Many households have now gone fully digital when it comes to their in-home entertainment such as music and films. Gone are the days of hoarding CDs and DVDs – everything is now on demand and instant access via the TV, tablets and smartphones. Thankfully there is still some money to be made by selling your CDs and DVDs. Websites such as musicMagpie and Ziffit offer this service, or you may have a local seller in mind who might want to make you an offer.
Sell clothing and accessories
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Designer goods
Designer clothing and accessories – particularly those in good condition – should sell easily and have plenty of interest. Designer items can be sold via dedicated apps like Rebelle, through an auction site such as eBay, or directly to a pre-loved designer boutique in your area. -
Clothing in new or good condition
Any decent garment can sell for a fair price if it’s presented well and listed in the right place. There are many apps available which specialise in the sale of clothing. As well as the more obvious Facebook Marketplace and eBay, there’s also Vinted and Depop which may be a good fit for you. If you don’t want to spend the time listing individual garments online, you might consider selling in outfits or bundles. Should you have rather a lot of clothing to get rid of, you could also consider selling it by the kilo by using a service such as Clothes for Cash. -
Ripped, stained or worn out garments
It’s hard to make any money at all with clothing which is worn out or damaged, but certain garments may still hold some value. Depending on the material, you could cut old clothing up into strips of material to use in sewing or craft projects, and even sell batches of these materials online if they’re suitable for quilting or similar.
