Just cleared out my Mothers house, how do I know if something is worth selling?

[raisinbran]

Due to ill health my Mum can no longer live in her house and plans to move into smaller sheltered accommodation. So I have taken 20 bags to the tip 15 to charity shops and there are some unsually items that I am not sure if they are worth anything. How would I find out. Examples are;

Tarnished Silverware,Engraved tankards etc
60's blown glass bowls and Vases, Lighters

Little cocktails sticks in the shape of the Pub sign they came from

China tea set once belonged to my Grandmother but been in my Mother's cupboard untouched for 20 yrs.

30 year old hornby train carriages

73 year old lawn mower.

Any suggestions very welcome

search for similar things on e bay?

(sympathies - it's a helluva job. I cleared out my GP's house last month after they died. Horrid / emotional / very hard work.)

You could call a local auctioneer and tell them what you have. If any of it is worth anything they will probably want to come and have a look.
Otherwise it's trawling ebay which is a bit of a PITA.

e-bay

You might be surprised. I'd hesitate at getting rid of the tea set tbh.

Thanks guys..... guess it will have to be ebay. I am really trying not to hoard stuff but I'll get rid of it and then regret it.

You need to describe things properly to sell them well on Ebay.An absolute must is a "Millers Collectables Price Guide" (library should have it).That will help you have a better idea of what you have. Also try the Auctioneers. You could take in photos.
Any of it could be valuable; eg; 60's glass can be very collectable, also the lighters if they're unusual. Train set is good, particularly if it's boxed/good condition.
Solid silver is nice, and has a very good scrap value at the moment, highest for 18 years. Tea set - depends totally on the maker, as does the mower.

The trains will be worth a lot, I would be concerned about anyone who comes around to value it and offers to take it off your hands, do your own research in case you have a trotter type old watch in the attic.

Forgot to mention that there is LOADS of info about Hornby trains on the web - collectors clubs etc. The value depends very much on the model and condition. I agree with Sorrento, - be wary of people making offers until you are VERY sure about what you have got ( and that's coming from a dealer!!)