Need extra money? You probably don’t have to look further than your closet

You’ve heard the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” That saying is proving to be true, especially right now. Experts say common household items tucked away in closets and boxes could be worth significant cash as markets for collectibles and precious metals surge.

Matt Chute, the founder of Allay Estate Sales, said many people overlook the value of items they have not used in years. This comes as the price of gold hits approximately $5,000 an ounce, prompting a steady increase in residents selling jewelry and other valuables.

Chute makes it his business to evaluate items found behind closed doors, often starting with bedroom closets. He said that clothing still with its original tags or that has not been worn in six months should be sold rather than kept in storage. Specific items like old Levis, Carhartt jackets and Pittsburgh sports jerseys are particularly valuable even if they show signs of wear. “Not just $20,” Chute said. “I’m talking north of $100 depending on what you have.”

Sports memorabilia that often sits in boxes can also bring in profit. Seasonal decorations also maintain value throughout the year. “All year around Christmas does well,” Chute said. Old glassware and Mason jars are also worth money.

The market for retro gaming and trading cards is also expanding. Local resident Norm Foersch recently sold his daughter’s 20-year-old Wii console and several games for $270 in cash. Tyler Westminster, owner of Arcadia Collectibles, said he has seen a significant increase in people trading in these items. “So that gaming market right now is the most explosive it’s ever been for collecting,” Westminster said. He noted that trading cards for Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh and Magic the Gathering can range in value from pennies to thousands of dollars, depending on rarity and condition.

Precious metals are currently a major driver for people cleaning out their homes. Gold is currently priced at approximately $5,000 an ounce. Randy Zapata, manager on duty at Gold Rush on McKnight Road, said he has seen a steady increase in customers bringing in broken or mismatched jewelry as the price of gold and silver hit recent highs. “I get people cleaning out their jewelry boxes that have one or two items that walk out of here with three to four to $500,” Zapata said.

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