From trash to cash: the best ways to sell your used stuff

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- For many people, the idea of moving to a smaller home is overwhelming. Consumer Reports shows how to get the most money for the stuff you no longer need.

Like many Americans, John Magoun and his family are downsizing from a large home to one half the size. They have had to ask themselves some tough questions.

"Do we need to keep this really anymore," Magoun said. "It's not just furniture; it's possessions, it's books, it's things your kids grew up with."

Consumer Reports has determined the best ways to get the best price for your furniture and everything else.

"To maximize your profit, you'll want to match your items to the best places to sell them, whether that's an auction, a consignment shop, online, or a yard sale," said Amanda Walker with Consumer Reports.

Valuable furniture and antiques in excellent condition could bring the most profit at an auction or consignment shop.

"This should be very easy to sell. We go to your home, we assess your items, we pick up your items, and we sell your items. The only thing you have to do is collect your money," said consignment shop owner Miriam Speropolis.

Furniture in good or gently worn condition should be sold on the web. Using Craig's List or a community Facebook site makes it easy to list heavy items as "pickup only."

Your artwork will get a better audience in an auction or consignment environment, and make you more money. As for clothing, consignment is a good idea if it's less than two years old and in good condition.

If you hold a yard sale, don't tag your items. You'll make more money asking buyers for their best offer. But there are some things you can't even give away.

"There's zero value to a big-screen tube television," Magoun said.

There is always that final choice when nothing else works - a ride to the recycling center or the dump. For things you can't sell, charity is an excellent option. Check to make sure it's an IRS-qualified organization, and you can take a tax deduction for your donation.

For more information on how to get the best price for your old professions, visit Consumer Reports.