I still get the paper on Sundays. Once in a while I'll come across an article that is worth sharing. This last week, in the variety section of the Star Tribune newspaper, I came across an article titled: "Avid recycler is the spark behind fix-it clinics." Subtitle: "Lamp won't light? Vacuum won't vac? Talk to Nancy Lo, lauded for her Fix-It clinics." (by Kim Ode) I was intrigued.
Basically, this gal is spreading the motto "repair is noble." Her love of recycling and being a resource for people developed into these Fix-It clinics. The clinics are run by volunteers. People who have something to fix, like you or I, can go to a location nearby and get guidance on how to fix something. Pretty cool right? I think so.
One of my mottos is: "Nice things take time." My grandmother always said this. Organizing takes time. Running and maintaining a house takes time. Fixing things is no different. So, it sounds like a great option if you are willing to put in some time and possibly save some money on buying new. It's also much greener than potentially throwing out something that may just need to be re-wired or adjusted with a new part.
While I usually encourage people to not hold on to things that don't work, just because...this is an alternative resource to consider. Plus donating something that doesn't work just doesn't seem right. I like the idea of a Fix-It clinic, to fix your stuff, and see if in fact it can have a new life with a little attention.
So, got a broken toaster, lamp, record player, iPod, toys or even clothing collecting dust? Type "fix-it clinics" in the search field at www.henepin.us. View a list of upcoming clinics, a list of common things they've helped people fix, what to bring or how to get involved as a volunteer.
Showing posts with label Resources. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Resources. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Ebay Selling Tips & Answers to "Maybe I can sell it on Ebay?"
As a Professional Organizer and owner of Smiling Spaces, LLC, I'm constantly transferring skills and knowledge to my clients. I work right along side people in their homes, not only helping to guide the process of organizing from start to finish but also helping them figure out what to do with their stuff. I customize solutions and leave a maintenance plan in place once we've made their spaces "smile." I'm continually learning new things, and love to share my findings here on my blog, or in a monthly email newsletter I send out.
This month, I'm sharing my investigation into the place many go to sell their stuff: Ebay. Heard of it? The first thing I am going to share is that I'm convinced it's not a noun. Ebay is a verb. It requires action, time, a plan, skills and follow through. Read on and you'll see.
With six years of experience in my profession, I can answer most questions that come up in a hands-on organizing session with confidence. But it's tough when I come across a question that stumps me. For instance, a question I get a lot is "Is this worth something?" It can be a difficult question to answer without more information. Another way it might be phrased is "I don't want to get rid of this because it might be worth something." I know there is a question within this comment, and it's not so simple to answer. This might be followed by my client saying, "Maybe I can sell it on Ebay." Not having a simple answer or solution can prevent someone from letting go of an item they no longer want. If they could get money for it, donation may not be the best option. My answer is usually to have us put questionable items aside from the obvious, "keep, "donate," or "toss" items. We might create a "consider" or "sell" area in their home.
A side note:
I come from a family that values antiques, well made furniture, and heirlooms passed down from the previous generation. I understand and can appreciate keeping things of value. But I also like to remind people that what is valuable to one person may or may not be of value to another. Value of most items can change over time and increase or decrease just like anything else. I've come to learn that storing items has a cost involved that many people overlook. What is frustrating is storing items we don't love, but keep because we think they might be valuable, to later find out they are not. There has got to be a better way.
Q: How does one get into selling on Ebay?
A: For most, it probably starts out as a hobby and may turn into a modest living. Most love the hunt of finding something really unique and rare, and then turning it around for a profit.
Q: How can I figure out what something is worth on Ebay?
A: Check the "sold" price of similar items on Ebay, not the asking prices out there. You want to go by what the items actually sold for, not what they were originally listed for. Also look at how many sold based on how many were listed. Another resource to check out: www.WorthPoint.com Requires a $20/month subscription.
Q: What sells well on Ebay?
Q: If I don't want to sell my stuff myself, who can sell on Ebay for me?
A: An Ebay trading assistant can help sell your stuff on Ebay. Sometimes you can even send photographs of items you may want to sell to be appraised by someone for free. Others are willing to come out to your house for a fee to look at your stuff and tell you if anything is worth trying to sell. If you decide to have someone sell for you though, they have to be in possession of your item like a consignment agreement. If they come to your house to appraise, they may be able to take one or two items that day from you to sell. Unlike a thrift shop, most people who sell on ebay will not keep items 1-2 years. They want to turn a profit as quickly as possible too. If they can't sell something for you, ask for a recommendation for another independent appraiser.
Tip: Focus on selling your larger items first. Bigger items take up more space to store. Smaller items are easier to store and should be left last if you have a lot of items you want to sell.
Q: How much does it cost to have someone sell for me on Ebay?
Q: What are the steps it takes to sell on Ebay?
Still want to Ebay? Give it a try!
This month, I'm sharing my investigation into the place many go to sell their stuff: Ebay. Heard of it? The first thing I am going to share is that I'm convinced it's not a noun. Ebay is a verb. It requires action, time, a plan, skills and follow through. Read on and you'll see.
With six years of experience in my profession, I can answer most questions that come up in a hands-on organizing session with confidence. But it's tough when I come across a question that stumps me. For instance, a question I get a lot is "Is this worth something?" It can be a difficult question to answer without more information. Another way it might be phrased is "I don't want to get rid of this because it might be worth something." I know there is a question within this comment, and it's not so simple to answer. This might be followed by my client saying, "Maybe I can sell it on Ebay." Not having a simple answer or solution can prevent someone from letting go of an item they no longer want. If they could get money for it, donation may not be the best option. My answer is usually to have us put questionable items aside from the obvious, "keep, "donate," or "toss" items. We might create a "consider" or "sell" area in their home.
A side note:
I come from a family that values antiques, well made furniture, and heirlooms passed down from the previous generation. I understand and can appreciate keeping things of value. But I also like to remind people that what is valuable to one person may or may not be of value to another. Value of most items can change over time and increase or decrease just like anything else. I've come to learn that storing items has a cost involved that many people overlook. What is frustrating is storing items we don't love, but keep because we think they might be valuable, to later find out they are not. There has got to be a better way.
Questions Answered
I recently attended a talk arranged by my Minnesota Chapter of the National Association of Professional Organizers where I got a lot of answers to a list of questions I had about Ebay. Below are the answers I'm happy to share.Q: How does one get into selling on Ebay?
A: For most, it probably starts out as a hobby and may turn into a modest living. Most love the hunt of finding something really unique and rare, and then turning it around for a profit.
Q: How can I figure out what something is worth on Ebay?
A: Check the "sold" price of similar items on Ebay, not the asking prices out there. You want to go by what the items actually sold for, not what they were originally listed for. Also look at how many sold based on how many were listed. Another resource to check out: www.WorthPoint.com Requires a $20/month subscription.
Q: What sells well on Ebay?
- High-End Collectibles and Furniture (if best examples in their category and are rare)
- Electronics (if they work well)
- Pocket Knives and Watches (easy to photograph and have less parts to match)
- Designer Clothes
- Books (if well cared for)
- Need to have really good photos and descriptions
- Items need to be clean (some collectibles are better left with their patina, so only a light wipe is best)
- Be honest about item's details and any defects
- Choose items worth $100 or more to make it worth your time
- Electronics (do they work?)
- Dolls (many from 1970s or later were mass marketed)
- Jewelry (needs to be identifiable and know gold content)
- Purses
- Beanie Babies
- Baseball Cards
- Stamps (really hard)
- Coins (a little easier)
- Toys or Anything with lots of parts (everything needs to match and be complete in many cases)
Q: If I don't want to sell my stuff myself, who can sell on Ebay for me?
A: An Ebay trading assistant can help sell your stuff on Ebay. Sometimes you can even send photographs of items you may want to sell to be appraised by someone for free. Others are willing to come out to your house for a fee to look at your stuff and tell you if anything is worth trying to sell. If you decide to have someone sell for you though, they have to be in possession of your item like a consignment agreement. If they come to your house to appraise, they may be able to take one or two items that day from you to sell. Unlike a thrift shop, most people who sell on ebay will not keep items 1-2 years. They want to turn a profit as quickly as possible too. If they can't sell something for you, ask for a recommendation for another independent appraiser.
Tip: Focus on selling your larger items first. Bigger items take up more space to store. Smaller items are easier to store and should be left last if you have a lot of items you want to sell.
Q: How much does it cost to have someone sell for me on Ebay?
A: A trading assistant will gather your expectations and goals for selling your stuff as well as discuss a time frame. Some have a set commission or will negotiate a commission. Keep in mind that they have templates ready to use and plug in, which saves them time, but they have to pay Ebay and Pay Pal as well. In any case, you will also have to invest time cleaning your items. Most people that sell for you will not do the detail cleaning and polishing required for a successful sale.
Q: What if my stuff isn't worth what I thought it was worth?
A: I learned that it's sort of an "un-freezing process" for many people when they hear whether their stuff is worth something or not. The attitude people have about their things may change. They will think more about the "holding costs" items have in their homes and may reconsider what is worth keeping.
Tip: Save time. Don't clean items before you have them appraised. Evaluating dirty items is expected. If it is worth something, you can detail clean it then.
Q: What are the challenges to selling on Ebay?
Q: What if my stuff isn't worth what I thought it was worth?
A: I learned that it's sort of an "un-freezing process" for many people when they hear whether their stuff is worth something or not. The attitude people have about their things may change. They will think more about the "holding costs" items have in their homes and may reconsider what is worth keeping.
Tip: Save time. Don't clean items before you have them appraised. Evaluating dirty items is expected. If it is worth something, you can detail clean it then.
Q: What are the challenges to selling on Ebay?
- Answering the question "what has value" to begin with can be tricky
- Items usually need to be in high demand to sell well
- There are counterfeits out there (Rolex watches for instance)
- Keeping inventory organized can be a challenge
- Things are seasonal (items will sell better at different times of the year)
Q: What are the steps it takes to sell on Ebay?
- Research Price
- Detail Clean items
- Write Descriptions (defects, details)
- Photograph
- List
- Inventory
- Store
- Receive Bids
- Answer Questions about item
- Complete Order Details
- Ship
Still want to Ebay? Give it a try!
Think you'll leave it up to the pros? Leave a comment below, and let me know what you think, found helpful, or still want to know. Thanks!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Get Stuff Done Club Organizing Interview & Book
I was recently interviewed on organizing in the Get Stuff Done! Club™ hosted by Certified Professional Coach and time management author Liz Uram from The Coach and Mentor Group. Members of the club use Liz's book the: How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook
Listen to the recording of our interview:
If you are someone who struggles with managing your time, I highly recommend taking a closer look at using this workbook and consider joining the club. The How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook helps people take back control of how they spend their time. You get to envision how you want your day and week to be and then use the practical tools and worksheets to help you reach your goals. The book comes with an assortment of colored highlighters that you'll use to help categorize the different areas of your life, a fun bonus that also has a practical purpose.
Each month members of the Get Stuff Done! Club™ are on the phone with Liz and one of her special guest experts who share their best ideas for time management, staying organized and goal setting in all areas of life. The club is for people who know that the key to success is creating a vision of what you want, setting goals to get there, staying focused, and taking action. Learn more about the Club: Here
I spoke with Liz on March 20th, which happens to be the first day of spring. Whether or not the weather is warm yet where you are, which it's not here in Minnesota, this time of year has many people thinking about spring cleaning projects. Together, we explained ways to put thoughts into action while giving our listeners practical steps on how to make a plan so they can ultimately, get stuff done!
Listen to the recording of our interview:
Purchase How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook
Listen to the recording of our interview:
 |
| The How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook |
If you are someone who struggles with managing your time, I highly recommend taking a closer look at using this workbook and consider joining the club. The How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook helps people take back control of how they spend their time. You get to envision how you want your day and week to be and then use the practical tools and worksheets to help you reach your goals. The book comes with an assortment of colored highlighters that you'll use to help categorize the different areas of your life, a fun bonus that also has a practical purpose.
Each month members of the Get Stuff Done! Club™ are on the phone with Liz and one of her special guest experts who share their best ideas for time management, staying organized and goal setting in all areas of life. The club is for people who know that the key to success is creating a vision of what you want, setting goals to get there, staying focused, and taking action. Learn more about the Club: Here
I spoke with Liz on March 20th, which happens to be the first day of spring. Whether or not the weather is warm yet where you are, which it's not here in Minnesota, this time of year has many people thinking about spring cleaning projects. Together, we explained ways to put thoughts into action while giving our listeners practical steps on how to make a plan so they can ultimately, get stuff done!
Listen to the recording of our interview:
Purchase How to Organize and Manage Your Time Workbook
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Simplify Your Life Week: Tackle Mail Clutter
Day #2- THURSDAY
Open mail and toss junk mail as soon as you bring it into your house each day.
Take five minutes each day to quickly sort junk mail from mail you want to keep. Stand by a recycle bin or trash can and toss anything that you don't want right away. If you're concerned about identity theft, place a shredder close by or use a paper bag labeled "shred" that you empty one time a week. Open all mail out of the envelope and recycle everything but the bill and return envelope or part you want to read. Use a basket to gather what's left or make a mailbox for each family member to make it easier to sort through.
A Favorite Smiling Spaces Resource: Catalog Choice to get off mailing lists.
Read more
How's your simplifying going? Leave a comment or question below.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Free Drop Boxes for Old Meds
Ever wonder what to do with old medicines you no longer need or want? It used to be common practice to just dump medicines down the toilet. But with concerns about contaminating our water supply, experts suggest not doing that. It could make us or someone else sick, and is bad for the environment.
1) Keep the medicine in it's original container: scratch off the patient's name or cover it with a sharpie
2) Leave the content information on: and then do something to modify the medicine For solids like pills: add water to dissolve the pills For liquids: and salt, flour, charcoal, or a non toxic spice or mustard to make it smell bad
3) Seal & Conceal: Tape the medicine container lid shut or wrap packs of wrapped pills with duct tape. Then place it in a non-transparent bag or container like an empty yogurt container.
4) Discard: Put in the garbage can, not recycling.
In Hennepin County, Minnesota: There are now free drop boxes offered for disposing of old meds. They'll Take: prescription drugs, including controlled substances, over the counter drugs, vitamins, and pet meds. They won't take liquids, needles, syringes, or anything from a business. No ID needed, only legal drugs, in original container or in clear plastic bag.
The boxes are green and located at:
- Public Safety Facility, 401 4th Av. S., Minneapolis (any time and day)
- Sheriff's Patrol Headquarters, 9401 83rd Av. N., Brooklyn Park (m-f 8-4:30)
- Sheriff's Water Patrol, 4141 Shoreline Drive, Spring Park (m-f 8-4:30)
(If you can't get to a drop box) How to dispose of medicines in the trash:
2) Leave the content information on: and then do something to modify the medicine For solids like pills: add water to dissolve the pills For liquids: and salt, flour, charcoal, or a non toxic spice or mustard to make it smell bad
3) Seal & Conceal: Tape the medicine container lid shut or wrap packs of wrapped pills with duct tape. Then place it in a non-transparent bag or container like an empty yogurt container.
4) Discard: Put in the garbage can, not recycling.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Catalog Choice Opt Out Resource
I'm not sure why or how I got on the "Cigar Aficionado" magazine mailing list. Neither my husband nor I smoke and although "Mad Men" is one of our favorite shows I don't intend to pick up a cigar anytime soon. When I recently received this magazine I had a good laugh! Luckily, I know of a resource to get off this mailing list.
Catalog Choice is a free resource that you can use to opt out of unwanted catalogs and mailings. All you need to do is set up an account and then type in the title of the magazine that you don't want mailed to you. They'll ask you a couple other questions like if there is a tracking number or account number on the magazine to make the unsubscribe easier. They will also ask you why you no longer want the magazine, which is optional to answer.
Visit www.catalogchoice.org for more information and give it a try!
Catalog Choice is a free resource that you can use to opt out of unwanted catalogs and mailings. All you need to do is set up an account and then type in the title of the magazine that you don't want mailed to you. They'll ask you a couple other questions like if there is a tracking number or account number on the magazine to make the unsubscribe easier. They will also ask you why you no longer want the magazine, which is optional to answer.
Visit www.catalogchoice.org for more information and give it a try!
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Recycle Holiday Lights at Ace Hardware
Have burned out Christmas lights that you want to trash?
Recycle lights at Ace Hardware stores for free.
Click Here for 300 Ace Hardware Minnesota Locations.
Recycle lights at Ace Hardware stores for free.
Click Here for 300 Ace Hardware Minnesota Locations.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Performer Tracker Resource and Tool
The developers of Performer Tracker want you to "Work SMARTER, NOT Harder." I do to. So, if you want to check into it for yourself, visit www.PerformerTrack.com
If you decide to subscribe, and you want to save $20, enter this coupon code: ABFR9
Break a Leg!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Institue for Challenging Disorganization
Do you have organizing challenges that affect the quality of your life?
The Institute for Challenging Disorganization offers education, research, and strategies.
Including:
Information about Chronic Disorganization
Characteristics & Conditions commonly associated in CD individuals
Free Fact Sheets
Reading and Resource Lists
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Free Paper Shredding
Ever get a paper jam? How frustrating! I recently have been battling my own little paper wars. One with my printer, and one with my paper shredder. Both of which are quite essential to have working for a happy home office. Keeping on top of shredding unwanted papers is helpful for security reasons and for taming paper clutter. While many of the paper shredders you can buy will take care of small amounts, if you have a lot of shredding to do or just purged a filing cabinet full of papers, it's helpful to have another option. This is where a secure shredding company can be very handy.
Pioneer PaperStock offers FREE paper shredding!
(Check their website or call for details.)
If you live in the Minneapolis area hours are currently:
Thursdays and Fridays 7-2:30.
Pioneer PaperStock offers FREE paper shredding!
(Check their website or call for details.)
If you live in the Minneapolis area hours are currently:
Thursdays and Fridays 7-2:30.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Free Printable Checklists to Get Organized
SMEAD has a selection of free, downloadable checklists that you can print and use immediately.
Take a minute to "check" them out and organize you life one small helpful list at a time.
Download, Print, Get Organized!
Grocery List
Monthly Goal List
House Cleaning Checklist
Travel Packing Checklist
Take a minute to "check" them out and organize you life one small helpful list at a time.
Download, Print, Get Organized!
Grocery List
Monthly Goal List
House Cleaning Checklist
Travel Packing Checklist
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
"do good" Compostable Diaper Service
I just read an article in today's Star Tribune Fresh duty for diapers about this new recycling service in Minneapolis. It's worth looking into if you or someone you know has been changing a lot of diapers lately.
With Earth Day just around the corner, I was interested to find out more about just how many disposable diapers end up in our landfills each year. According to some online searches I found it's in the billions: between 10-27 billion. One site mentioned that it takes up to five hundred years for them to decompose.
With Earth Day just around the corner, I was interested to find out more about just how many disposable diapers end up in our landfills each year. According to some online searches I found it's in the billions: between 10-27 billion. One site mentioned that it takes up to five hundred years for them to decompose.
An interesting alternative to cloth, do good diapers is a service that provides diapers that are compostable. You buy a box and then they pick up the diapers and compost
To view a short video to learn more http://www.THEGreenAwards.com/Default.aspx?v=34
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Social Network Posting Resource
HootSuite.com is a free resource that allows you to post to multiple social networking sites like Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter all at once. Just sign up, link your accounts with their simple instructions and you're all set. The great thing about it is that you can type up a post ahead of time and schedule its delivery in advance. Going out of town but still want to keep in the front of your potential clients or pals? This is a great option.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Recyled Card Program
Instead of tossing your holiday cards this year, mail them off to be recycled into new cards at the St. Jude's Ranch for Children. Only the front is used, so cut off the side with any writing on it. They accept all types of holiday cards but do not accept Hallmark, Disney or American Greeting cards.
For more information visit www.stjudesranch.org/store.
1-877-977-SJRC (7572)
Send your donation to:
St. Jude’s Ranch for Children
ATTN: Donor Office
P.O. Box 60100
Boulder City, NV 89006-0100
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Recycle Clothing Dropoff
Don't know what to do with clothing that is not even good enough to donate? Instead of tossing it in the garbage take it to a drop off site that recycles it. USAGAIN has dropoff bins all over Minnesota and in 14 states nationwide. They also accept shoes and home textiles including bedding, towels, and blankets.
Who knew I have 3 within a mile of my house?!
Visit http://www.usagain.com/ or call 1-866-900-0012 to find a location near you.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Need an Appraisal?
John Ewoldt writes great columns in the Star Tribune each week. Recently, he wrote an article called: "Ask an Appraiser." (November 2nd, 2010) Check out: "Where to take trinkets for appraisal" for locations and resources.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Deal Spotter Blog to Follow
The Star Tribune Newspaper has a blog called: Deal Spotter (www.startribune.com/blogs/dealspotter) Check it out if you spot a deal, or want to find the best deals in town to save you money.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Movie Review Resource
Ever sit down to watch a movie and discover it's awful, but keep watching it anyways? A big disappointment, a waste of time and money, and sometimes ruining an evening and leaving everyone crabby.
Wouldn't it be great to know a little more about the movie everyone is recommending before you get it? Want to see if it's appropriate to bring to the family cabin, watch with your in laws, or children around? Save frustration, embarrassment, and money by doing a little quick research ahead of time.
Start Using this resource for selecting movies you get on Netflix or from the RedBox.
A NEW blog called Scripted Life: http://scriptedlife.silverscreenplays.com/
Wouldn't it be great to know a little more about the movie everyone is recommending before you get it? Want to see if it's appropriate to bring to the family cabin, watch with your in laws, or children around? Save frustration, embarrassment, and money by doing a little quick research ahead of time.
Start Using this resource for selecting movies you get on Netflix or from the RedBox.
A NEW blog called Scripted Life: http://scriptedlife.silverscreenplays.com/
- movie title with an honest review from a screenwriter/upcoming film maker
- a rating 1-5
- the movie trailer (more trailers coming as blog evolves)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Free Stuff for All
If you've upgraded your belongings or need to make space in your home...
Check out The Twin Cities Free Market to give away or get free stuff. All you have to do is type in your name, city, and zip code to set up an account. Then either list an item you want to give away or shop around for items yourself. You can also place a request for something you need.
Appliances
Children's
Electronics
Furniture
Home Renovations
Lawn and Garden
Musical Instruments
Pet Supplies
Recreation and Exercise
Visit http://www.twincitiesfreemarket.org/
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Arc's Value Village Costumes & More
Check out Arc's Value Village, the thrift store and donation center with 4 Minnesota locations: St. Paul, Richfield, New Hope, and Brooklyn Center.
Shop there or have them pick up donations from your home free of charge.
Sept 23-October 31 -Halloween "Boo-tique"TM "with a great selection of over 75,000 used and new Halloween costumes, accessories and decor. Great prices on everything you need!"
Shop there or have them pick up donations from your home free of charge.
Sept 23-October 31 -Halloween "Boo-tique"TM "with a great selection of over 75,000 used and new Halloween costumes, accessories and decor. Great prices on everything you need!"
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