Tidying Up
As much as I admire Marie Kondo’s approach to living lean, I tend to want to hold on to things rather than items “of the moment”. I have classic clothes from the 1980s that are back in style and, luckily, still fit and am glad that I kept.
Recently, my husband and I used the excuse of getting new carpeting for our lower level to purge lots of items, however. Moving to a new home is also the perfect time to declutter but often there are too many other details to address and unused things just get boxed and moved—never to be opened again.
My clients and I have found a few resources that have worked well.
Getting rid of Junk
Rid of It did a great job recently to remove a garage full of items for a client just before closing. They were on time, efficient and professional. I will use them again. This is for things that have no real usable value for donation.
Got to Go is another resource but I haven’t used them.
Furniture Consignments
A few of the old standbys (Estate Interiors and Consign Desgin) have closed up shop but my favorite, with the largest floor space in Seattle is Bell )’Occhio on Elliot in Interbay. They used to sell more traditional pieces but also have modern and mid century.
Donating
In addition to the usual Goodwill and Salvation Army, I have a new favorite for Women’s items recommended by a good friend, Simple and Just is a non-profit that sells lightly used donated clothing, shoes and accessories to benefit women and children who have experienced sexual exploitation. It makes me feel good to know that those designer items that no longer fit my lifestyle will find a new home with a buyer and the proceeds will go to a worthy cause that is local. Address for Simple and Just is 2213 Queen Anne Ave N 206.350.3390.
Online selling
The RealReal is my go to for selling (not donating) high-end clothing, shoes and jewelry.
Local online selling
Two clients have recently had great luck with Offer Up when Craigslist and Next Door got no results. Both clients had lovely, high end furniture items to sell and were happy with the results.