“We need objects to remind us of the commitments we’ve made. That carpet from Morocco reminds us of the impulsive, freedom-loving side of ourselves we’re in danger of losing touch with. Beautiful furniture gives us something to live up to. All designed objects are propaganda for a way of life.” ~ Alain de Botton. This morning we sold a lovely wardrobe for a song. Lifting and moving pieces, unknown muscles were discovered and another part of our history was gone. Other furniture is on the market and it is a fascinating sociological experiment with enthusiastic messages and then silence, lots of commitment and promises but no one turns up. All bizarre and time consuming. Items need to go as we realise how much has been accumulated over the years. Feng Shui practice honours furniture but sees that letting go of ‘stuff’ releases energy and allows new energy to enter. That doesn’t mean replacing but at least recycling.

Feng Shui First

For furniture, Fengshui loves the Chi energy to flow around each space, preferring curves and soft corners and aiming to avoid the ‘poison arrows’ of modern furniture. These are said to send negative energy to the area opposite and particularly, if a person is sitting or sleeping opposite on arrow. Not easy with the designs of today. Remedies including rounding off corners, placing cushions in front are noted in other posts for you to read. There are other modern trends that even common sense would question. Stove tops above a dishwasher, open shelves above the cooking area, a toilet and bath in the bedroom and other factors which just say, no.

Practical Packing

It is an art and I am convinced that mathematically minded people perceive it to be a Tetris game! Stackable and reusable boxes are perfect and many even have wheels on these days.  It is a time to divide items in to memories, what’s useful and then what can be donated. Always an interesting process. Let go of duplicates, tired looking linen and towels and old tools. Donate online or to charities. Student accommodation is usually happy to take kitchenware. However, anything chipped or damaged, throw it away.

Selling Online

It used to be easier but be prepared for empty promises and dodgy comments. Remember, you have used it and are never going to get back the original price. Let it go. Check what your competition is like on various sites for similar products and be prepared to drop your price eventually. Take photos in daylight of the exterior and the interior, note dimensions and brand names or other information. Then brace yourself. People will send lots of messages promising to buy and don’t turn up. Then there are the crazies who state that they can take it off your hands or even, let them know when it is free!

 

Here are some lessons learnt:

  • Don’t give away too many personal details and if using Facebook, check the profile of the potential buyer;
  • Politely but firmly block any unusual requests or strange people;
  • Some people are fine with Paypal and other payment tools but our golden rule is to meet outside if possible and exchange the product and money;
  • Other buyers may want to see it and then suggest a deposit;
  • Anything that needs taking apart and re-assembling – use paper tape and draw diagrams, write directions, left and right, top and bottom and information to help your buyer;
  • Make sure it is clean and works;
  • Give the buyers parameters – a date and a time to meet or view, otherwise you will get very frustrated waiting around; and
  • Keep trying as it is trying!