In the fast-paced auction world, it’s easy to be swept up by the thrill of seeing items find new homes and bidders who appreciate their unique qualities. But when should you consider holding onto an item, rather than parting with it? Whether you’re a collector or someone who has inherited a family heirloom, certain pieces may be worth keeping – for now, or forever.
At Potteries Auctions, we have a friendly and approachable appraiser team that offers a genuine, personal valuation service. We will always aim to best advise you on whether to keep your item for the time being if it won’t sell well in the current market if you’re still particularly fond of it, or if it holds sentimental value. The last thing we want is for you to sell something you might later regret.
So, let’s explore some reasons for holding on to your treasures a little longer versus selling them at auction right away.
Sentimental value
Some pieces carry significant sentimental value, especially when they’ve been in the family for generations. Heirlooms, personal gifts or items that remind you of a particular time or person can be irreplaceable. While they might have monetary value, their emotional worth is often far more valuable. Selling these items could lead to regrets, as it’s challenging to put a price on memories.
For example, a piece of jewellery passed down from your grandmother may hold a lifetime of stories, or a piece of art could transport you to a memorable occasion. In these cases, preserving the memories tied to the object might outweigh any potential profit.
Market conditions
The auction market can be a bit of a rollercoaster, with demand and prices for certain items fluctuating significantly. For many items, trends can play a huge role in determining when is the best time to sell. Market conditions may suggest a current high value, but waiting for the market to peak can potentially bring in a far higher return.
When considering the value of your item, research the latest trends and forecasts for your specific category. For instance, a certain artist’s work may be surging in value due to increased media attention, but holding onto it for a few more years may yield even greater returns if they continue to gain recognition.
Similarly, however, holding onto it for too long may also see a decline in market value if that demand eventually wanes, so sometimes finding the right time to sell can become a balancing act.
Emotional connection
Beyond sentimental value, sometimes a piece simply speaks to you. Perhaps you feel an intrinsic connection to a sculpture, a vintage piece of furniture or a painting that reflects a part of you. Art, in particular, can evoke emotions that resonate deeply and make you feel understood or inspired. When a piece adds to the quality of your life by being in your presence, it may be worth holding onto rather than selling.
Ask yourself, if you sold this item, would you miss it each time you looked at the empty space it left behind? If the answer is yes, it might be best to keep it around a little longer.
Potential investment growth
Certain collectables may appreciate over time if stored and maintained correctly. This is particularly true for items that are inherently limited in supply. If you suspect your piece will increase in value, a little patience could result in a significantly higher future sale price.
If you’re in doubt, our professional appraisers are here to help you better understand the potential appreciation trajectory of your item. For example, early works from a popular pottery factory or a first-edition book might grow in value, making patience a wise investment.
Heirlooms and family legacy
Sometimes, certain pieces are not just for us but for future generations. Heirlooms – whether pieces of jewellery, fine art or pottery – are items you might want to preserve as a family legacy. By keeping these objects in the family, you can pass down a cherished piece and a story that future generations will appreciate. In this way, an item becomes more than just an object – it transforms into a bridge between past, present and future family members.
Holding on to a piece for your children or grandchildren may give them a profound sense of family heritage. And, often, the sentimental and historical value of family heirlooms outweighs the financial gain they might bring if sold.
Enjoyment vs potential profit
An important consideration in deciding whether to sell or keep an item is how much joy it brings you. Does it spark joy each time you see it? Or is it stashed away, gathering dust? If it’s the former, your enjoyment may far exceed what the item could bring at auction. Remember, collecting isn’t always about the financial bottom line – it’s about surrounding yourself with pieces that make you happy. Sometimes, that joy alone is worth far more than money.
Another thing to consider is the fees associated with selling at auction. While we’re always transparent about our selling fees, it’s important to factor them in when looking at your potential profit. You don’t want to part with your item for less than you’re comfortable with once the fees are taken.
Trust your gut
Trust your instincts. There’s often an inner voice that knows when it’s right to let go and when it’s best to hold on. If you feel uncertain about selling, it’s okay to wait. The auction world is always changing, and opportunities to sell will arise again. Keeping a piece doesn’t mean you’ll never have the chance to part with it; it simply means it’s not the right time yet.
Deciding whether to hold on to an item or put it up for auction is a personal journey that balances sentimental, financial and emotional factors. While some pieces are meant to move on and continue their story elsewhere, others are meant to stay close, bringing warmth, joy and memories. Before you make the decision to sell, take time to consider the true personal value of your piece. Sometimes the best treasures are the ones we choose to keep!
How to sell with Potteries Auctions
At Potteries Auctions, we can identify and provide valuations across many specialisms to help fetch the best price for your precious items.
Please get in touch with us if you’re looking for an expert evaluation. Our free valuation days are held every Tuesday at our Silverdale saleroom and every Thursday at our Cobridge saleroom. To book an appointment, use our online booking form here.
Due to popular demand, we have also started to offer a private valuation service for premium items. Please contact us directly to arrange an appointment by emailing amy@potteriesauctions.com.
You can also email us at enquiries@potteriesauctions.com or call us on +44 (0)1782 638100. Valuations can even be provided via WhatsApp – send some clear images of your items via the app to 07864 667940.