Making a Green Move
2009/09/10 Originally published in the Vernon Morning Star.
This is a subject that is close to my heart.
The process of moving is an excellent opportunity to use environmentally safer methods. Right from the beginning, as you prepare your home for sale, you can keep green practices in mind.
Most of us clean out our closets and storage areas both to help our homes show well and to lighten up our possessions in readiness for our move. The worst one can do with these excess possessions is send them off to the landfill.
Some of us have garage sales. These are an excellent recycling concept and I applaud those who have the time and patience to do it. The income from such sales is usually minimal.
Most often, our families don't want to absorb our cast-offs, but always ask.
It's worth a try.
There are a number of other ideas that will accomplish the goal of recycling vs. disposing. Obviously, there are the auction houses, antique dealers and used furniture stores. Prices are low when compared to the original value of most items but "something" is better than "nothing".
Next, we have the ability to donate. The list is a long one and here are a few ideas from that charities list. The Salvation Army (who really needs our contributions of both cash and goods this year) will bring their truck and pick up large items. Their thrift store on 27th Street beside Subway takes a huge variety of items. They take furniture, toys, giftware and clothing. The Mental Health Store is a beautiful little shop. They welcome donations of all clothing, and especially better clothing. There are also consignment clothing stores on 30th Avenue, where you can take your re-saleable clothes. From those stores you receive a share in the sale price when your items are sold. Any left over goods normally go with your permission, to charities. Big Brothers take a large variety of items as well. Value Village located behind RE/MAX at the north end of town will unload right from your vehicle. They donate a portion of their sale proceeds of each sale to Big Brothers and Sisters of the Okanagan.
When it comes to packing up, there are lots of worthy "green" ideas. For instance, use used cardboard boxes. They are fairly easily available from liquor outlets and grocery and retail stores. Avoid buying new ones. Use old newspapers and used plastic bags for packing materials.
Use bio-degradable and environmentally safe cleaning products when cleaning up both the home you are vacating and the one you are moving into. Ask questions of carpet cleaning contractors and choose those who are using green cleaning products and methods. Please use our curbside recycling program to its' fullest extent.
I'm sure you understand what my point is. Please, just keep asking yourself what the best thing is to avoid creating waste. Awareness is the Key.
Jane Field works with RE/MAX Vernon. Jane has over 30 years experience in the Real Estate business. To suggest topics for future articles or to ask Jane questions, email her or call 503-3755.
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