exit strategy?

[quinnsryche]

I recently sold all my cards and books for a new home purchase. I deleted all my photos and scans and all records of what I had. I felt if I had any kind of connection to what I had I would be too remorseful and maybe even try getting back in. Can't afford it anymore, it's just too expensive and time consuming. I needed a clean break. I don't even come on here much anymore because it's too tough to look at all the great stuff.
That was my exit strategy, get out fast and clean.

[barrysloate]

I think to answer the question properly, you would need to assess what's in the collection. If it's all slabbed vintage cards, it's very liquid with a deep market so putting it in an auction would work just fine. I've been selling mine over the years and because it consisted of more esoteric memorabilia it was a little tricky. What I discovered is if you're patient, you will eventually find a collector who will pay a good price for at least some of it. Some pieces that I couldn't find buyers for went to auction, with very mixed results. Some did well, and some tanked. So in this environment I would be careful if you have something that may not be all that popular. I guess one's urgency plays a factor too- is it a long term project or do you need the money for something pressing? Overall I would say a good strategy, carefully thought out, is the best one can do in this economy. Don't expect miracles unless all you have are T206 rare backs.

[Zach Wheat]

Interesting question Leon. I am mainly a set collector and plan on passing the sets down to my children one day. The question for me is how to divide the sets and be fair to all. Even in passing my collection down to my children, I hate the thought of my collection being split.

In part, because of this, I've found myself purchasing more HOF material.

ZWheat

[sportscardpete]

Timing and money will be the key factors here. Having a 5 year window to sell your cards gives you plenty of time to slowly unwind everything at a good price. Strongly oppose selling them all at the same time. Too much risk that you are selling at a softer sport in the market.

Handing them down to your kids must be bittersweet. Are they really capable of handling this influx of cards? Best bet is to sell it on your own, rather than handing it down (unless someone shows great appreciation for your collection).

I've built a small collection and I'm only 22, so I still have many more years to even worry about it. I also keep my accounts cash friendly, that way I won't have to sell off cards in an unforseen emergency.

[zljones]

Originally Posted by quinnsryche

I recently sold all my cards and books for a new home purchase. I deleted all my photos and scans and all records of what I had. I felt if I had any kind of connection to what I had I would be too remorseful and maybe even try getting back in. Can't afford it anymore, it's just too expensive and time consuming. I needed a clean break. I don't even come on here much anymore because it's too tough to look at all the great stuff.
That was my exit strategy, get out fast and clean.

I did the same thing with my collection of U.S. Navy rating badges. I left the hobby because some items were too rare and expensive and I needed the money upfront or I would never see it again that's how I ended up $4,000 in debt on one credit card within two months time! Cards are better for me because I can take my time collecting. You did the right thing by deleting all your evidence, I did the same thing, sometimes it's too painful to look back