Give them what they want...

Today was our monthly walk-in appraisal day at Garth's.  Starting on our third year of these monthly events, we have really begun to realize a significant, steady stream of traffic.  Today we had a special visitor:  a member of Delaware City Council.  He commented to me that perhaps our traffic is a sign of the times - that people are getting "desperate" in this trying economic climate, and they are resorting to selling family heirlooms to generate much needed cash (for food, gas, housing). Sadly, this is a reality for some folks today; and, we have had our fair share of panicked calls, often accompanied by a plea for a cash advance.  But, those calls were happening more often in the absolute darkest days of the housing crisis and recession.  Fortunately, they are much fewer and further between these days.  What we see from the hoards of folks who come bearing treasures to these monthly last-tuesday events, is a desire to simplify their lives.  They are looking for ways to lighten their loads, slow down, eliminate some responsibilities.  We have realized, over the years, that there seems to be a certain sense of burden for someone who isn't really interested in an item, but stores and protects it "because Aunt Sally thought it was important enough to give to me, so it must be valuable."  It always amazes me to see the look of relief hit their eyes when we tell them that it really isn't a big deal, and it is ok to just let it go.  Of course, it is pretty terrific to see the light in their eyes when you share a big dollar value, too.  But, at the end of the day, it is clear that most people are coming because they are seeking simplicity in their everyday life.  Interesting to think about the motivation behind selling - and how that might be affecting a buying audience, as well...hmmm.