Records, CDs, jewelry, etc. – What if they’re worth something?

Q: I have many, many old record albums (LPs) and CDs in their jewel boxes. They take up a lot of room. I don’t even have a record player anymore, and rarely listen to the CDs because there are so many subscription-based music services that are just easier. Any thoughts? Pamela A., Delmar

A: We see this all the time! It’s stunning how many boxes you can fill with LPs and CDs! And yes, there are many easier ways of enjoying “your” music than constantly changing CDs or LPs. That can be quite disruptive during dinner or a get-together! One thing many people do is “burn” their CDs onto their computer and share the files on their phones to listen to them. The CDs can then be donated or perhaps sold, although the market for CDs is fickle. You could check the classified ads or search the web to see if there’s a collector or shop that may be interested. LPs can be a different story, however. There are many avid collectors of old LPs, if they are in their original sleeves and in good shape (no skips, scratches, etc.). While vinyl is making a comeback, only certain genres are popular, like classic rock, etc. Again, check the web for vintage music stores that might be interested in your collection ... or at least a portion of it!

Q: I have been the recipient of jewelry from many of my late relatives (grandmothers, mother, mother-in-law, aunts, etc.). It’s too much! And I wouldn’t even consider wearing many of these items! We’re thinking of downsizing in the next year or two, and I’m starting to target things that have accumulated over the years that I do not want to move to a new home. How do I know if any of these items are valuable without investing a lot of money into the project? Ramona P., Georgetown

A: It’s often the case for women in families to be the recipient of their ancestors’ jewelry. And although some of it is both beautiful and valuable, it is sadly the case that too often it is only beautiful or valuable – or neither. There are not many ways to find out the value of jewelry without taking it to a jeweler for appraisal. If you have a favored jeweler, he or she may be willing to eyeball the piece and give you an idea if it is even worth appraising. At that point, you can make the decision to either go the next step to determine its value for resale, or simply donate it. Remember: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!

Q: I’m going to be moving very soon, and I have no idea what to do with my two curious and energetic dogs while realtors, movers and other associated people are in the house. Any suggestions? Perry C., Seaford

A: You are not alone, Perry! We routinely visit homes, pack boxes and photograph items for our online auctions with “curious and energetic” dogs very interested in our every move! Although we are pet friendly, it can be dangerous for both the humans (tripping hazards) and the dogs (unintended escapes!). If you have not introduced your animals to a local doggy daycare center, now might be a good time to take them for a half a day on multiple occasions to introduce them to the routine. Then, when the critical days for realtors and movers come, you can drop the dogs off, guilt-free, to ensure everyone’s safety!