When it comes to downsizing, moving, or simply decluttering, one of the hardest parts is letting go of household items, valued treasures, and so-called priceless heirlooms.
I recently met a couple while buying some china and glassware from them, and our conversation reminded me just how complicated this process can be. It also got me thinking: there are two sides to this story.
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The person selling—the emotions, the memories, and how that affects their perception of value.
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The person buying—often a reseller (like me), who has to consider the realities of pricing and profit.
The Seller’s Viewpoint: Emotions and Memories
As resellers, we have to be careful with the emotions of the product owner. People often have a deep attachment to their things. Collections of china, figurines, or glassware can be tied to family traditions, special occasions, or even just memories of a loved one.
Sometimes the attachment makes perfect sense, and other times it doesn’t. But more often than not, these items act like memory triggers—and that makes parting with them difficult.
The problem? These collections are usually passed down a generation or two, and most kids today don’t want them. Other family members may talk about how valuable the items are, but they don’t want to actually take them. That leaves the owner with guilt—they don’t want the pieces themselves, but they feel bad for letting them go. Before long, the collection becomes more of a burden than a joy.
The Reality of Value
Here’s the hard truth: most collections are not going to pay for college tuition or fund a retirement. Value in the resale world is driven by market demand, culture, and trends.
At the end of the day, an item is only worth what someone is willing to pay. If no one wants your china pattern, Aunt Martha’s famous salad bowl, or that figurine from Grandma’s shelf—it’s just clutter taking up space.
And here’s the challenge: how do you kindly help the owner understand that? Sometimes it’s not easy, and sometimes it’s not even possible.
The Reseller’s Perspective
For resellers like us, this is our job—our paycheck. We have to buy at prices that allow us to make a profit. That doesn’t mean we don’t respect the history or emotions tied to these pieces, but it does mean we have to look at them differently.
When we buy, we’re not just purchasing an item—we’re taking on the responsibility of finding it a new home. That’s part of the work we love, but it has to make sense financially too.
What’s the Answer?
One of my favorite sayings is: “You do you, boo-boo.” And it applies here more than ever.
If you’re facing the decision of what to do with these items, remember: it’s okay to let them go. Keeping them boxed up in an attic or basement isn’t honoring the memory of the loved one who cherished them. Instead, pass them on and let someone else enjoy them.
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Sell to a reseller or estate seller: You’ll make some money, and they’ll work to find the item a new home.
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Donate to a church or thrift store: Let the proceeds help a good cause.
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Hand them to that guilt-tripping family member: If they care so much, let them carry the responsibility.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s your house, your taste, your life. You don’t need to carry the weight of stuff that no longer serves you.
So—you do you, boo-boo.
And if you’re interested in more conversations about vintage treasures, reselling, and letting go of collections, stick around here at Backroadpicking.com. There’s always more to share and learn.