by Linda Pezzimenti

Estate
Findings

“THERE’S SELLING IN THE AIR”

There seems to be something in the air. A bit too late to be called Spring cleaning, yet too early to qualify as the season for those snowbirds who pack up when the snow flies, and ye there’s something making so many people contact me lately about their downsizing and their desire to sell their belongings.

Is it our economy that makes us think that Grandma’s dining room set could equal a few extra tanks of gas? Or are we all just a bit ready to “Simplify” and feel that the STUFF that isn’t necessary is better turned into cash? Whatever it is, I welcome your concerns and questions. I have contact with many qualified shops, co-ops, auctioneers and dealers who may be interested in your china, teacups, vintage linens and furnishings, etc.

But first, as we’ve discussed here in my column before, be a wise “seller.” Try to imagine what you’d like to receive for the items. Remember, though, that “heirlooms” are only treasured by you and your loved ones, not by the buyer or the dealer, unless of specific collectible or antique value. Just because something is old, it still needs to find an appropriate buyer for the size, style, color and condition. Remember too that every shop has monthly expenses involved in using display space to feature their wares, whether they sell or not.

If you’d simply like to clean house and get rid of items to a good home, I can help you arrange a donation or perhaps a partial donation where you do benefit. And if you have any of those old veiled “church hats,” as we call them, save them for us, as we love to offer them to our Tea guests to “dress for Tea” in our boudoir area!

When selling, here are a few tips: Large items, if sold on Ebay or if moved to a consignment shop, require labor, muscle and proper transportation. These things don’t come without cost. However, listing an item in the paper requires you to invite strangers to the house to “see” what you’re selling. Make sure you’re not home alone, and if possible, ask to send or e-mail photos of the items to reduce the number of visitors you might otherwise receive.

Here’s a story you’ll wish you didn’t hear: A customer of mine recently told me that she called in a piano tuner to work on her antique piano. He said he’d have to take the ivory keys off and work on them “in the shop.” Well, she never saw that ivory again… or that piano tuner!

Lesson learned: Always get a receipt if anything leaves your possession, with a written explanation of services and price. This pertains to consignment shops as well. And be sure it’s clear as to where the responsibility lies if there is damage or pilferage while in someone else’s possession.

Luckily most companies are honest, and respectful not only of their customer, but of their continued reputation. However, I’ve learned that asking for references is like spray-painting in a windstorm. What’s the use? Does anyone actually think that someone would provide a “bad” reference? Of course they’ll only supply you names and numbers of “satisfied customers” (even if they’re just their brother or best friend).

So, where do you go for help? Listen in to our radio show, “Estate Findings,” Saturdays on AM radio WWKB 1520 at 8 a.m. for interviews, advertisers, and general discussion about the past, with some tips for down-sizing or collecting. Hear our “What’s About Town” community calendar for sales, historical events and fun programs that relate to the past. We even offer an opportunity to list your garage sale or item for sale by donating $9.80 to sponsor a package being sent to a soldier serving overseas. Call us at 716-655-0023 and we’ll tell you more.

Hope you’ll be listening, and if you have questions, be a caller and ask us for advice. You can even suggest a guest or theme, offer a suggestion, or ask us to cover one of your questions on-air. E-mail us at estatefindings@yahoo.com. I’ll be waiting for your questions. Meantime, enjoy this summer… and don’t forget to use a nice day to clean out that garage!

Linda Pezzimenti is host of the 8:00 AM Saturday morning Estate Findings radio program on station KB1520 and owner of Josephine’s – the Victorian style gift boutique at 650 Main Street, East Aurora, including Josephine’s Victorian Garden Tea Room, and Josephine’s Too… Estate Findings & Furnishings. You can contact her at 716-655-0023 or at estatefindings@yahoo.com