Top Tips for Valuing Your Tresasures with Harrison Goldman

Harrison's guiding philosophy is simple – nothing overlooked, and nothing wasted. Here are his top tips for uncovering the stories and value hidden in your home:

1. Always have a valuer visit in person 
Photographs and online valuations can only tell part of the story. A professional eye will notice what others might overlook and save you the considerable time and effort of trying to catalogue everything alone.

One homeowner was disappointed to learn that her hand-painted ceramics weren’t as valuable as she hoped but on the shelf beside them sat a first edition Harry Potter book worth around £3,000, despite years of loving use.

2. No stone unturned (or shoe box unopened)
Harrison’s philosophy is simple: look everywhere and assume nothing.

It’s not only artworks and antiques that hold surprises. During one visit, a client’s art collection had already been assessed multiple times yet Harrison came in and spotted a pair of Roger Vivier shoes tucked away in her wardrobe worth £8,000–£10,000, missed by previous valuers.

Fashion, books, textiles, costume jewellery and even everyday household items can hold unexpected value, which is why Harrison leaves no corner unchecked.

3. Provenance matters
Provenance can significantly enhance both sentimental and monetary value. Harrison actively searches for it, often leafing through old books and exploring hidden corners for forgotten receipts or notes.

On one visit, he found a receipt tucked inside a book that verified the history of a family portrait collection adding meaning, and value, for the owner.

4. Sentimental value deserves respect
Some items carry more personal meaning than financial value, and Harrison recognises that. He takes the time to understand the story behind each piece and treats every object with care and respect.

For him, learning the history is just as important as establishing the market value. It ensures decisions are made thoughtfully and nothing meaningful is overlooked.

5. Choose a valuer that works for you, not a salesroom
Independent advice is invaluable. Because Harrison isn’t tied to an auction house, he can tell you exactly where each item will perform best, whether that’s:

• Auction
• Private buyer
• Precious-metal specialists
• Antique dealers
• Reuse/rehome partners and charities

The result is objective guidance that helps you make informed decisions so that every item finds its best home and nothing is overlooked or wasted.

Decluttering and valuing possessions can feel daunting especially when there are so memories are woven into the things we hold. Harrison’s philosophy is built on patience, care and curiosity, ensuring every book page, drawer and shoebox is looked through with respect and expertise.

To arrange a private visit or learn more about Harrison’s services, please get in touch with him by phoning 07806 716 908 or emailing harrisongoldman@icloud.com. 

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