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Tips for a Successful Garage Sale

By David Pierce

October 14th, 2007

Do not throw out or give away the junk in your home, sell it! A person would be surprised of what they have stored that is sellable. Many items you have forgotten about long ago can reap huge rewards. Remember, you do not get any cash from throwing away in the local dump. Although having a garage sale can be challenging, the benefits far outweigh the work you put into it.

If you are having a garage sale because you are moving, you are at a unique advantage. Have you ever thought about trying to sell your house at the garage sale? Getting traffic is the key to selling anything. You can inexpensively put an ad in the local paper advertising your garage sale. Putting a sale sign in front of your house, along with a detailed listing and picture, similiar to a brochure will definitely be beneficial. Be certain to make plenty of copies so people can take them home and hand out. This may be the biggest money maker of your garage sale. Be sure to take advantage of every ounce of traffic you get and take advantage of it.

You do not need a lot of stuff to sell at your garage sale. Ask for donations from family members and friends. People would be surprised what others buy at garage sales. Broken tools, lawn mowers, old clothing, are all fair game for garage sale inventory. Having your sale in the morning will attract the most aggressive of customers and ones who will actually buy as opposed to browsing. Those serious about shopping garage sales come early. Do not be surprised if you have people showing up at your door before the scheduled start time. Also, be certain you tell people that everything for sale is outside, if that is your intention. People have been known to wonder in the house of the host anticipating bargains.

The weather is always an important factor in a successful garage sale. Be sure to check the weather way in advance of the sale date to avoid any complications. It may be a good idea to have some sort of canopy or covering if the weather looks like it may get bad. You may also move it indoors into your front room, or better yet, into the garage if you have one. Just be certain everything is laid out and organized, much like it would be in a department store. You are essentially, having a small business for a day or weekend.

Another good idea is to have all electronics and electric tools in one spot so customers can test them. You do not want people scurrying into your house to plug up a used computer or tool. Locate them near an outlet or get an extension cord to plug up the electronics. Always use caution when plugging things into an extension cord, some items are not meant to be plugged into them. If at all possible, keep electronics near an outlet in your garage. Make sure all electronics, and anything you are selling is clean. People will be reluctant to buy anything soiled. You will get top dollar for you clean items. Have as many racks and tables available the day of your sale. You may also want to group like items together and sell them as a lot. Many people prefer buying this way, especially items such as baby and maternity clothing.

Lastly, be sure to have plenty of change and keep the bulk of your money under lock and key in the house. Thieves do visit garage sales and some are professional. Keep in mind people do not generally have your best interests in mind. Keep tabs on everything and have a watchful eye.

David Pierce is owner of Garage Sale Riches A website all about garage sales and the best ways to have one.