Are you a collector? Do you find variations on a theme irresistible? Do you get a rush when you find a piece of china that is the missing link to your memories of Grandma? Perhaps you collect books by a certain author or matchbooks from every state.
What do you do when you outlive the fondness for your collections? Interests and lifestyles change, and sometimes we have to make room for fewer things in our lives. Making decisions about what to do with collectibles requires know-how, time and energy.
Antique and collectible author and spokesperson Harry L. Rinker provides valuable information on what to consider when downsizing collections in his book "Sell, Keep, or Toss? How to Downsize a Home, Settle an Estate, and Appraise Personal Property."
Mr. Rinker shares his insight as an appraiser as he guides the reader through the process of downsizing furnishings and collectibles due to a personal move or death of a family member. He explains,
"Value is generational."
In other words, we cannot expect others of different generations to attach the same meaning or value to items that we can place in a certain context. The next generation may or may not be interested in their parent's collections. Space or ability to maintain a collection may preclude someone from accepting responsibility for a collection from a friend or family member.
Do you have a plan to address the collections that have outlived your interests or anticipated lifestyle?
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