Selling your stuff

Many people sell items to their successors. Please be reasonable when buying and selling items. Here are some guidelines to consider when selling items to your successor, from a former ALT:

1. Remember you are part of a community and it is your responsibility not to profit off of your successor. Be loyal to the community. Try to recall how you felt when first arriving in Akita. Remember how overwhelming it was and try to be accommodating to the needs of your successor.
2. Always deal in Japanese yen. The goods were bought in Japan, the goods will be used in Japan. Avoid any possible confusion by just sticking to yen.
3. Be honest. Make a precise list of all items, and don’t exaggerate the age, condition or price of the items. The price should genuinely reflect the current worth of your goods, not simply the price that you paid for them. Eventually the person will see the goods and realize their age and condition, so include accurate photos from the start.
4. Find the receipts of more valuable items, such as washing machines, TVs, and other large appliances. Have these available to aid negotiations.
5. If possible, wait until you can meet your successor. This way, you can personally negotiate a price and come to a deal quickly. Don’t let the negotiations stretch out for a long period of time.
6. If your successors says they don’t want something, don’t leave it. I’m looking at you, unwanted futons and half used conditioner bottles.
7. If you are unsure of the value of the goods, ask around. Consider getting an evaluation by a second-hand dealer or asking a local person what would be a reasonable price. It never hurts to err on the generous side.