The Household Item To Sell Before Retiring To Save A Ton Of Money

If you ever find yourself needing to declutter, think twice before tossing out those old items. Older pieces, especially antique furniture, can be surprisingly valuable that they turn into a side hustle. Jessica Li, according to Architectural Digest, lost her job during the pandemic so she and her partner, Leo, started flipping furniture. They bought three cane Cesca chairs for $5 and sold them for about $300 after some restoration, a 5,900% increase in value. Your high-end furniture might be worth even more since the price of antiques aren't fixed; their value is linked to rarity, history, craftsmanship, and condition.

Two prime examples of antique furniture with high earning potential are Chippendale and Queen Anne styles. Originating in the mid-1700s, Chippendale furniture was crafted by the famed English woodworker Thomas Chippendale. These pieces are celebrated for their elaborate carvings and refined designs, drawing from Rococo, Chinese, and Gothic influences. Authentic Chippendale items can fetch prices as steep as $226,000, although some may dip below $1,000.

On the other hand, Queen Anne furniture is beloved for its cabriole legs and elegant curves, harking back to the early 1700s. Collectors prize these pieces, especially those that retain their original upholstery and finish. Depending on their condition and history, Queen Anne pieces can range from around $857 to $58,000 in value. These are just a few examples that can fetch you money. And who knows? This extra cash could be a real boon for your retirement fund.

The worst mistake you can make is undervaluing your antique items because even old cookbooks can be worth a ton of money. If you're a retiree planning to sell your furniture, consider a few key factors to estimate its value. First up is the condition of the pieces. Authentic, well-preserved furniture that's free from significant damage or repairs generally fetches a higher price. Any replacements or alterations can diminish the value, as many buyers seek out items with original finishes and untouched craftsmanship.

Next, consider the backstory of your furniture. If it's got a history linked to famous personalities or was part of notable collections, that could really bump up its value. Rarity is a big plus too. Limited edition pieces or unique designs by famed creators like Chippendale, Hepplewhite, or Eames become goldmines because of their exceptional craftsmanship and legendary names.

Finally, remember that the worth of antique furniture can change with the latest market trends — what's hot today might not be tomorrow. Staying clued into these shifts helps you choose the best time to sell. When you factor all this in, you'll have a solid sense of your antique furniture's potential value.

Still, you should consult a professional appraiser to know if your antique furniture is worth something and how high to sell. Find a local appraiser around you or try Appraise It Now. Once you've determined the worth, the next step is choosing the best platform to reach potential buyers. Online marketplaces are your best bet. There are several that specialize in selling high-end antique furniture. Platforms like Chairish, 1stDibs, and eBay cater to collectors and dealers willing to splurge on authentic pieces.

When listing furniture, you will be required to include detailed descriptions and high-quality photos. You will also emphasize elements such as craftsmanship, maker, provenance, and any certifications. For example, if selling a Chippendale chair, mention its hand-carved details, wood type, and historical significance. Also, reputable auction houses are also a good option, especially if they are from a famous maker (or author like these antique books that are worth a fortune) or they have historical significance.

One upside of auction houses is their large network of potential buyers which can help generate interest. Houses like Sotheby's are popular amongst collectors. If you're not comfortable with any, you can leverage local antique deals for a straightforward process. Antique dealers are experienced in buying and selling vintage items; you can find them in antique malls and flea markets. They have an understanding of the market and can get the pieces off you quickly.