Benefits & Options for Disposing Old Goods Before Remodeling

Deciding How to Clear Out Old Belongings Can Be Stressful and Tricky

Remodeling a house can be one of the most daunting tasks, especially when removing old items. There are many viable options when it comes to disposing of old items. A homeowner can throw things away, donate them, run a garage sale, or host an estate sale.

While each option offers specific upsides regarding time and effort spent getting rid of old possessions, there are notable differences worth outlining. Mr. Handyman of Northeast Johnson County is here today to help you sort through those options and determine the best course of action.

Things to Consider Selling and Donating When Remodeling

One of the most challenging aspects of remodeling is deciding what to do with old furniture, appliances, decor, and other household items you no longer need. You may be tempted to throw everything away quickly, but that's not necessarily the most sustainable, practical, or budget-friendly way to deal with unwanted items. Before we get into the varying disposal methods, let us discuss some things you might want to consider selling or donating when remodeling.

Assess Old Furniture

Furniture is one of the biggest items you may want to consider getting rid of when remodeling your home. Whether it doesn't fit your new layout, it's old and worn, or you're just ready for a change, there are several ways to part with your furniture. You can always list items on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. You can also donate furniture to charities or non-profit organizations like Goodwill or the Salvation Army.

Inventory Your Appliances

Another item that you may want to consider selling or donating when remodeling your home is appliances. If your old appliances still work and are in good condition, you may be able to sell them on online marketplaces or donate them to charities or organizations like Habitat for Humanity. If your old appliances are outdated or beyond repair, you may be able to recycle them at a local scrap yard.

Consider Unused Décor

Decorative items like rugs, curtains, artwork, and knick-knacks can be challenging to get rid of, but they can often be sold or donated. You can use online marketplaces to list these items or donate them to non-profit organizations that accept home decor donations. You may also consider holding a yard sale or hosting a garage sale.

Check Your Basement and Garage for Building Materials

If you're doing a major remodel that involves tearing down walls or making significant changes to your home's structure, you may have excess building materials like lumber, drywall, or insulation. These materials can often be recycled, or you can donate them to organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Some cities also have building material reuse centers where you can donate or purchase used materials.

Don’t Forget Clothing and Textiles

Finally, when remodeling your home, you may have excess clothing or textiles you no longer need. Instead of throwing these items away, you can donate them to charity organizations like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. You can also sell these items on online marketplaces or have a yard sale to dispose of them.

Garage Sales vs. Estate Sales

Estate sales usually require more forethought, effort, and planning, but they are often a better option than garage sales, especially if you want to make the most profit. Let us look at some of the perks of estate sales versus garage sales when remodeling.

Estate and Garage Sales Involve Differing Degrees of Exposure

Estate sales are commonly advertised in local newspapers, online forums, and social media platforms. Consequently, more people will know about the sale, thereby drawing more potential customers. On the other hand, most garage sales are sparsely advertised, which means only a few people will know about them in advance.

Of course, this is not true in every case. Some estate sales involve minimal advertising (signs posted on street corners), whereas some garage sales are recurring, community-based, and promoted for weeks. Whatever the case, the amount of effort put into promotion will largely impact the turnout.  

Garage and Estate Sales Can Be Profitable And Effective

While garage sales are notorious for being inexpensive to get rid of old items, they are rarely as profitable as estate sales. Estate sales typically staff professionals experienced in pricing and appraisals that ensure a higher profit margin, which is an advantage when remodeling. Conversely, garage sales attract buyers looking for bargains, which means they are more inclined to haggle prices, leaving you with smaller profits.

Consider the Quality of Items You Are Selling

Estate sales primarily include high-end items of excellent quality, such as fine art, antiques, desirable furniture, and pricey appliances. In contrast, garage sales usually involve clearing practically everything, including old t-shirts and worn-out furniture. Both methods serve distinct purposes – helping tidy and organize your home by discarding old, low-quality, or no longer necessary items.

Prioritize Effective Time Management

One significant factor to consider when holding an estate sale or a garage sale is time management. Estate sales are self-contained events that occur within a specific time frame. This may make them more efficient in managing your time.

On the other hand, garage sales may be extended over several days, making them less effective in using your time. However, holding estate sales entails careful planning and a fixed date. These preparatory steps demand ample time to prepare adequately, while a garage sale can be run on a whim.

Estate sales tend to require more comprehensive preparation, such as appraisals, pricing, and hiring professionals who will sort and organize items and verify their authenticity. Garage sales are less extensive, and you are responsible for managing and pricing your items.

Need Help Remodeling? Hire Mr. Handyman of Northeast Johnson County!

When discarding old items, it is wise to consider advertising exposure, profitability, time management, and personal responsibility. Each approach has specific advantages and disadvantages for every situation. Whatever you decide, the net gain is your home will be ready for a more seamless remodeling process.  

At Mr. Handyman of Northeast Johnson County, we are experts in tackling fix-it jobs and providing home improvement assistance during remodels. Whether you need help installing a kitchen island, assembling furniture, or repairing a bathroom tub enclosure, our team is equipped and ready to help.

Need remodeling assistance? Call today, and let’s start creating your ideal home today!