You know what they say: “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.” Whether you are looking to make some decent pocket change or rid yourself, and your home, of some excess clutter be sure and read the following nine tips to ensure a successful, money-making sale.
Preparing Your Garage Sale
#1. Set a date, or dates, for your sale
#2. Purge: Go through your home, one room and garage at a time, and decide what to sell. If you read last month’s blog: “Spring into Garage Organization,” then you should one step of the game already. The items that make it into your garage sale pile should be in good to excellent condition. They should be something you’d willingly spend your own money on.
#3. Advertise: A lack of advertising can have negative effects on your sale. The best ways to advertise your sale are through social media, websites, and garage sale finder apps. You should also advertise your sale with brightly colored signs that are legible to read. Make sure to post your hours and address, along with directional arrows, so bargain hunters know when and where to go.
Setting Up Your Sale
#4. Organize: The way you display your items speaks volumes. Organize your sale like you would see in a store. Hand clothing on racks, separated by size and gender. Set out tables and place items in categories, such as: kitchen gadgets/utensils, sports and camping equipment, toys, tools, seasonal décor, appliances, and electronics. Supply a power source so that customers can test any working items.
#5. Price Everything: As an experienced bargain hunter, a sale without clearly marked prices is one of my biggest pet peeves, and is often the reason behind me walking from a sale. Price all for sale items as you set them out – no exceptions. “Name Your Own Price” sales generally don’t fare as well as traditional garage sales.
Maximize Your Sale
#6. Multi-household Sale: To get the most out of your sale, consider having a neighborhood sale, or inviting a friend or family member to come over and sell his/her wares right alongside you. There is nothing bargain hunters like more than a multi-household sale.
#7. Be Approachable: Always greet your customers with a friendly smile and a “Good Morning.” Offer your assistance when able to, but don’t follow your customers around or be pushy, as this can make people uncomfortable. Some good conversation starters include asking them:
- “Are there a lot of garage sales out there today?”
- “Can you believe how lucky we are with the weather today?”
- “Are you looking for anything special?”
#8. Involve the Kids: Give your children a taste of private enterprise by entrusting them with their own lemonade or water stand – within your eyesight. They’re sure to get a kick out of it! Are they selling cookie or popcorn for girl/boy scouts? Set them up for success by allowing them to sell those products at your sale.
#9. Guard Your Money and Valuables: Don’t ever leave your money or valuable items unattended – not even for a second. Carry your money on you in either a fanny pack or carpenter’s belt at all times. As for valuables, keep those in a locked box or case when not showing to an interested party.