Collectors spend a lot of time collecting stamps and many spend a lifetime collecting stamps. But, most often collectors sell their stamps once. Many collectors become very good buyers. They spend significant time, effort and expense in the process of acquiring stamps for their collections. Unfortunately, when it comes time to sell their stamps, they are totally bewildered with the process. How and where to sell your stamps is an extremely important part of the collecting process.
Often many collectors make the mistake of not selling their stamps at all - while they are alive. They leave the process of disposition to their family or friends. I have been involved in assisting family and friends hundreds of times in the selling process, and believe me when I tell you that your family and friends do not appreciate you hoisting the burden of selling your stamps onto their shoulders.
I have counseled many collectors and families over the years about the selling process, and my advice always remains the same. It is the responsibility of the collector to handle the disposition of their stamps. They are the ones that know their collection the best, they are the ones who know from whom and where they bought their stamps, and they are the ones who should be primarily responsible for the disposition of the collection.
There are basically three ways of selling your stamps. I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each avenue.