Spring is all about renewing, recharging, refreshing, cleaning up, and … cashing in? While spring cleaning and scoring some extra cash might not seem like they go hand-in-hand, they absolutely can, and it’s a great way to make some cash during your seasonal reset. If you’ve found yourself wondering if you could profit from more than just some extra space this spring, then you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re sharing some ideas on how you can make money while clearing the clutter and cashing-in on your gently used items.
Spring Cleaning Can Make You and Your Bank Account Blossom!
Bees are buzzing, flowers are blooming, and your bank account can (or will) blossom too as you embark on a springtime journey to clear-up space, declutter and potentially profit in the process.
The first step is to go through your stuff and separate your clothes, garage items, kids’ toys, knickknacks, etc. into three piles: Keep, Donate, and Sell. Once you’ve got your piles of stuff sorted, “Keep” pile. And you know what to do with your “Donate” pile. But how about that “Sell” pile? Well, fortunately for you, it’s never been easier to sell stuff you no longer want or need. And whatever your style – click, tap or cold hard cash, we’ve got some advice for you.
Where to Get Dough for Your Duds (and Other Used Items)
Like the saying goes, there’s an app for that. In a world where just about everyone has a smartphone, there is a phone application for practically everything under the springtime sun. One of the best and most convenient ways to make money off of your gently used items is to sell them via one of many online services. All you need now is a finger, so pull out your smartphone and fatten your wallet while you’re at it.
OfferUp:
- This innovative app makes selling your second-hand items as simple as second nature, with an intuitive interface and a category for almost anything you’re looking to part ways with (it’s not you, it’s me… wait, actually, it is you, but it’s still also me). Since the site has millions of users, you’ll have some cash in hand, your house decluttered, and be out enjoying some springtime sun in just a few simple swipes.
Poshmark
- Whether you’re looking to profit off old clothes or do some shopping of your own, websites like Poshmark are the perfect digital marketplace. With its fashion and beauty-specific categories, you can sell that skirt or snag the perfect pair of shoes within minutes of creating an account. You’ll step into the new season with a spring in your step.
Facebook Marketplace
- Unless you’ve managed to dodge the digital age, chances are you have a Facebook account. And, if you’re not feeling up to downloading a new app, or creating ANOTHER online profile and password, profit off your old things instead from the pages of the world’s most popular social media site. That’s right, Facebook has its very own marketplace where you can buy or sell just about anything to people in your area.
There are lots of other great options to part ways with your less than favs. This article from U.S. News lists several additional websites or apps that will get you selling or shopping in no time – thanks, internet!
But, what if, perhaps, you’re feeling more old school and can’t stand to tackle the task of selling stuff online? Well, breathe easy, you can still make some spring cleaning cash by selling your stuff in-person. For starters, you can make your way to a flea market where you can sell items to buyers in person. Another option is a second-hand retailer – consignment stores like Plato’s Closet will pay you to part ways with your gently used clothes. Or you can even hold an old fashioned yard sale. And just think, if your local consignment store or yard sale shopper gives you a check for your items, bring it to Moneytree for instant cash or Instant Funding* to your debit card account.
Bonus tip:
Feeling a little fancy and looking to give your wardrobe a refresh as you Marie Kondo your closet? Reinvest your earnings into things that spark joy this season. Help your closet bloom by decking yourself out in some new gear using your decluttering dough. And, if you decide you simply can’t part ways with your favorite floral dresses quite yet, but are still in need of a few spring staples, the sites and retail locations we’ve listed in this article can save you some serious cash while you shop.
As we step into sunnier days and say “sayonara” to both cold weather (good riddance!) and some of our outdated items during spring cleaning season, cashing in while you declutter is a great idea. Spring is a time for fresh starts, after all, and it’s easier than ever to make way for the “new” (and to fatten up your wallet) by selling what you no longer want or need.
Looking for more tips? Moneytree covers additional topics on our Financial Living page.
*Instant Funding is not available for all debit cards. Subject to limitations. Some restrictions may apply. Transactions that are solely Western Union wire transfer payouts are not eligible for Instant Funding. Processing times vary. In most instances funds are transferred in approx. 30-45 minutes, but can take longer. Moneytree is not responsible for bank, processor and other third-party posting delays or errors.
