Start by creating a central space to stage or collect the items you can sell, donate, recycle, and toss. Then take a room at a time and think about what you'll do with your new found money (vacation, remodel, school supplies), time (read, friends, hobby), and energy (play, travel, exercise) because you've conquered the clutter.

In the September 17 Denver Post article called "Cashing in on your clutter", Amy Dunn's Centsible Saver blog was featured. All of us declutterers use the same language: purging unwanted stuff frees up space (for Mrs. Chi); if you don't need it, love it or use it on a regular basis, put it up for sale; there's nothing like an impending move (or an imaginary one) to speed up the emptying of closets, attics, bedrooms and files. Check out Amy's tips for ways you can make money letting go of your stuff. 

1. Half.com. All you have to do is type in the ISBN number and rate the condition and you can post books, DVDs and CDs for sale. When the money is deposited into your account Half.com takes 15% and the seller is reimbursed for shipping. You can also donate books, CDs and DVDs to your local library.
2. Etsy.com. This virtual craft fair lets you sell hand-made goods as well as craft supplies. Now they include vintage items (at least 20 years old) like pearl-studded earrings from the 1970s or a Fisher Price toy record player. It costs 20 cents to list an item and Etsy takes 3.5%.
3. Metal recyclers. Get paid cash on the spot for all scrap iron and metals like keys, wire, aluminum, motor parts, old disposal, or a dishwasher or stove. We took an old cast iron wood burning stove with old car parts and keys and made nearly $200. Rather than pay someone to haul off your old appliances, sell them for the scrap metal and add the cash to your "Fun Fund". In Denver we use Western Metals Recycling, 2100 W Oxford Ave, Englewood CO 80110, 303.761.268.

This week take a look around your house, office, or garage and see how you can cash in toward your next vacation or project.

Until next week

Wishing you Simplified Interiors

Kathie Seedroff