How to Unlock Cash from Your Gently Used Furniture

You suddenly have furniture in your home that you don't want. Maybe your grandmother died and left your her old furniture, or maybe you just want to redecorate your outdated home. Whatever the reason, sometime in your life, you will probably need to rid yourself of some unwanted furniture that is still in good condition.

Furniture consignment stores can help you do just that, and make you some money in the process. Consignment stores will take your furniture, display it, sell it, and charge you a percentage of the sale price. They will sometimes take whole sets of furniture, if they have the room.

Of course, you want to get the best possible price for your gently used furniture. Before you deliver it to the consignment store, you will need to make your furniture look as nice as possible. Clean the upholstery and repair minor tears. If the furniture has specialty upholstery, such as velvet or brocade, you will want to have it professionally cleaned so as not to risk ruining the piece.

Repair any broken wooden pieces, and polish and touch up scratches. For instance, if the top of a dining room table has stains and scratches, you may want to sand it down and refinish it.

Replace any missing hardware. If you can't find matching hardware, consider replacing it all.

A fresh coat of paint can make beat up or badly stained wooden pieces look brand new. Spending just a little money and time can reap big rewards.

If your furniture is high end, but the upholstery is badly worn, you may want to consider having it reupholstered before consigning it. It may be the difference between receiving three figures or four figures in the sale price. On more expensive furniture, you will always get your money back on anything invested in making it ready for a consignment sale. High end consignment stores can usually recommend upholsterers and refinishers to you.

You want to make your furniture look like something that you would want to buy, and would be proud to put into your home. Having your consignment furniture in prime condition ensures a faster sale and a bigger profit.