This is a question many collectors ask themselves. We personally graded less than 1/10th of 1% of the cards we purchase. (1 out of every 1,000 cards approx.) Grading can add value to cards but only to cards that are either extremely rare or in extremely high-grade condition.
We receive calls on this all the time with people saying they have X card and saw it on eBay for $10,000. There are multiple problems with this. First off, they are usually looking at asking prices and not completed sales prices. Keep in mind you can ask whatever you want for a card, it doesn't mean it's worth that or you will get that price. Second, Is your card graded and in the same condition as the one you are comparing it to? Condition is everything in cards and collectibles.
A good method we use to determine if a card is worth grading is this: What is the card worth ungraded (Raw), how much is the grading fee, and what will the value be when the card is graded assuming you get the grade you anticipated? It's really just common sense. Don't grade cards unless you feel it will increase the value or increase their liquidity. Everyday PSA graded thousands of cards that really never should have been sent in. With the longer turnaround times and higher grading fees these days, it makes even fewer cards good candidates for grading.
If you have any cards you are debating grading and selling please contact us and we can help you determine if that is the correct path to maximize the value of your collection.
