B33 - Decluttering and Liquidating Your Assets

People of all ages can reach a stage when they decide to have a clean out and get rid of things they no longer use or have the space for.

People decide to declutter for different reasons and at different times. Here are some reasons why you might decide to declutter:

1. Wanting to grow old in your home so needing to get organised for that
2. Moving things out of harm's way so you don't fall or hurt yourself in other ways
3. Not wanting to burden loved ones with inherited clutter so getting it sorted now
4. Wanting to pass on precious things to family and friends
5. Moving into smaller accommodation and needing to reduce your possessions in order to fit
6. Wanting to help a charity
7. Wanting to liquidate (sell for cash) some of your assets.

When thinking about decluttering your home, as you consider each item, think about whether you should keep it, toss it or sell/give it away. And remember, decluttering is not a process to be rushed. Relatives and friends may pressure you to declutter more quickly than you feel comfortable with. They will not have the same attachment to your possessions that you do, and they may not understand the process you have to go through to decide what to do with your belongings. Don't be pressured by them to make decisions or take actions you don't feel happy with.

If you are limited by space, you might consider hiring a small storage unit where your precious things can be stored until you decide who to give them to or what to do with them.

If you're not sure of the value of particular items, you could get them valued by a professional (eg, jeweller or furniture expert). This may help you work out who you want to give the item to or whether you will sell it instead.

If you decide to sell some of your possessions, you can do so through an internet selling site, such as trademe, or through a second-hand or antiques dealer, who would buy the item off you to on-sell through their shop.

Pros

• Decluttering can help you relive some good memories.
• You can share some of your special items with the important people in your life.
• You might earn some money from items you decide to sell.
• You will gain more space and reduce clutter.

Cons

• Clearing all the clutter can take a long time and can be exhausting - pace yourself.
• Some things you find as you declutter your home may bring back bad or sad memories.
• It can cost to have junk items removed from your home.

What do I need in order to take this option?

• You need to be ready to get rid of some of your possessions.
• You need to have the time to do the work and meet any important deadlines (eg, moving house on a certain date).

Could this option limit my future choices?

No, but take the time you need to make decisions you're happy with.

For more information

There are professional organisations and people that can help you declutter, and some specialise in helping older people who are moving. Use the internet to help you search for ones in your region.