Garage sales are where fortunes disappear: expert warns Australians could be losing thousands by selling valuables for cents
Australians clearing out family homes are being warned they could be unknowingly throwing away thousands of dollars, with experts revealing that garage sales are often the worst possible way to sell valuable items.
From vintage jewellery and artwork to collectibles, furniture and rare household pieces, items that can be worth significant sums are routinely sold for next to nothing, only to be snapped up by savvy buyers and resold at massive profits.
According to Bob Morton, cofounder and CEO of The Property Clearance Company, the problem is widespread and often happens during highly emotional times, such as when a loved one passes away or moves into aged care. The Property Clearance Company assists families all over Australia to downsize, clear out homes when loved ones pass or move into retirement living and nursing homes, sort, value and sell items and prepare homes for sales.
“Families think they’re doing the right thing by holding a garage sale to clear out a home and make a bit of money,” Morton said.
“In reality, it’s often where thousands of dollars quietly disappear.”
Why garage sales can be a sell-out, in the worst way
Morton said garage sales are particularly risky because they attract buyers who know exactly what they’re looking for and how to get it cheaply.
“You’re not selling to everyday people. You’re selling to collectors, resellers and dealers who know value instantly,” he said.
“They walk in, spot something worth hundreds or thousands and buy it for $5, $10 or $20.”
“These same items then end up in auction houses, antique stores or online platforms, sometimes selling for 10, 20 or even 50 times what they paid.”
Emotional decisions can cost families dearly
Morton said the issue is compounded by the emotional nature of clearing a home.
“When someone passes away or moves into care, families are overwhelmed, time-poor and often just want to ‘get it done’,” he said.
“That’s when mistakes happen. Things are undervalued, rushed out the door or sold without any real understanding of what they’re worth.”
The hidden value in everyday homes
Morton said many Australians are sitting on valuable items without realising it.
“We regularly find items in homes that families assumed were worthless only for them to sell for significant amounts through the right channels,” he said.
“This can include vintage furniture, mid-century pieces, artwork, jewellery, collectibles, even everyday household items that are highly sought after.”
“The difference is not the item, it’s how and where it’s sold.”
Don’t be a fool, get it valued properly
Morton is urging Australians to think twice before defaulting to a garage sale and instead seek professional advice.
“Don’t be a fool with something that could be worth real money,” he said.
“A quick conversation with an expert can completely change the outcome.”
Professional clearance specialists can assess items, identify value and ensure they are sold through the right channels, including specialist auction houses and curated sales platforms where buyers are actively seeking quality pieces.
“That’s where you get proper competition, proper pricing and proper respect for what’s being sold,” Morton said.
Respecting the past and maximising the future
Beyond the financial loss, Morton said garage sales can also diminish the legacy of a loved one’s belongings.
“These items often represent a lifetime and they deserve more than being thrown out on a driveway with a price tag,” he said.
“When handled properly, you’re not just clearing a house. You’re honouring what’s there and ensuring it finds the right home, at the right value.”
A smarter way to clear a home
Morton said the key is to slow down, get advice early and approach the process strategically.
“With the right guidance, you can clear a home efficiently, respectfully and often with far better financial outcomes,” he said.
“It’s not about holding onto everything. It’s about making informed decisions.”
About The Property Clearance Company
The Property Clearance Company is Australia’s leading specialist in deceased estate and aged care home clearances. Founded by Bob and Jude Morton, the family-run business offers a trusted, end-to-end service that includes inventory management, item valuation, removals, managed on-sale service, donations and home preparation for sale. With a national footprint and a reputation for compassion, transparency and respect, the company has supported over 3,000 families through emotionally complex transitions. Their mission is simple: to clear homes with dignity, preserve family harmony, and honour the legacy of those who lived there. Visit: www.propertyclearance.com.au
