Post by Rod Wood - How to tell if you've got a genuine collectible and how to get the most for it if you decide to sell.
 
I've had a lot of calls from viewers through the years who've asked for advice on selling unwanted items from home. Part of this stems from folks who watch the PBS "Antiques Roadshow" in amazement as household items are sometimes appraised at thousands of dollars.
 
Recently, Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine offered five recommendations.
 
(1) See local experts. You can get free advice from local antiques or collectibles dealers. But don't sell at this point, because a shifty dealer could lowball you to score a bargain.
 
(2) Check out general price guidelines. Two examples are "Kovels Antiques & Collectibles price list 2007" and "Collectibles Price Guide 2007" by Judith Miller. Check your local library.
 
(3) Surf the internet. Search to see what your items are selling for at online dealers and on eBay.
 
(4) Spring for an appraisal. It may cost you hundreds of dollars, depending on the value of the item, but it's worth it if your research suggests big value.
 
(5) Know your options. The most convenient way to sell is through a dealer, but you'll usually get 20 to 50 percent less than the "book value" shown in price guides, depending on the item's condition.
Auctions can be a good choice if you have a large collection with at least some high-value items. But you'll pay a 10 to 15 percent commission.
Or you can advertise in collectors' publications or online or sell at a collectors' show or to members of collectors' clubs, which you can find online.
But beware of buyers who want to cherry-pick your choicest pieces. It can be more lucrative to sell collections intact.
 
Have some thoughts on this topic? An experience in buying or selling collectibles? Tell us about it.