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Clutter Doctor: Naomi Saunders

The Clutter Doctor - 7

This can often involve a strong urge to pare down possessions that have been clogging up the house for months, maybe even years.

So let me ask: when you put your Christmas decorations away did you open the loft door and just shove the boxes into the nearest available space?

Or did you shine a light into the darkest corners and remind yourself what was in there? 

Most people can't remember what they've got once it's been put away, but there are often unusual and collectible items that could be sold. 

Christmas decs: up, up, in the loft, and away?

I know that this in itself brings a problem for some people, with the whole process of selling requiring too much time and effort. But just remember your stuff isn't worth anything while it's gathering dust in your loft.

Myths

An easy solution to this "how to sell" dilemma is to sell your items at auction, although some of you may not have considered this as a disposal route before. 

All good auction houses will provide you with a free valuation, advise on the saleability of your items and the price they would hope to achieve. Some will even visit your home, collect your items from you and store them until the next sale. 

If you've never been to an auction before but would like to try selling items this way, why not go along to one first to see how the process works? They are great fun and many auctioneers are real showmen, guaranteeing you an entertaining few hours. 

There are a lot of myths surrounding auctions. The main one, of course, is that you only have to scratch your nose and you discover you've just bid on something. Most auctioneers will know the difference between a bidder and a nose-scratcher, so don't worry – you won't be going home with a surprise purchase! 

Finally, if you are selling stuff at auction and go along to watch the sale, do try to resist the temptation to buy.

Remember you are aiming to get rid of clutter, not acquire more!