6 Yard Sale Tips for More Money, Less Hassle
—Karen Haywood Queen
When it comes to yard sales, it’s easy to make a wrong turn with some simple mistakes. But a well-planned yard sale will leave your wallet fatter and your home decluttered. Proper planning, skillful organization, and a sense of humor will save the day—and your sanity. Here are some tips to ensure success.
1. Start Early
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Even if your next yard sale is months away, start sorting through your belongings now. Put each item in one of four storage containers: Keep, Toss, Yard Sale, and Undecided. “If you’re not using it in the next year, don’t keep it,” says Dave Valliere, senior product manager for home storage at Yardsalequeen.com.
Related: 11 Easy DIY Projects to Declutter Your Home
2. Ad It In
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Advertise online and in your local paper. If you have baby items or antique furniture, say so. People will scan the ads looking for items they need, and if you have what they’re looking for they’ll come to your yard sale.
Related: 10 Best Flea Markets for Cool Old Finds
3. Sign Me Up
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Check local ordinances on sign placement. Make your signs easy to read from the road and similar in design so people can follow them. Paint or draw the arrows after you plant the signs to make sure they point in the right direction.
Related: Instant Curb Appeal - 15 Fast Facade Fix-Ups
4. Price Pointers
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Visit other yard sales and thrift stores to get ideas on pricing. You’re in business for the day to get rid of things you don’t want so price accordingly. You can mark prices with colored stickers, but make sure you don’t damage the item in the process.
Related: Thrift Store Savvy - 10 Treasure-Hunting Tips from a Seasoned Shopper
5. Lure Them In
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Put the good stuff, the big stuff in easy view. If someone is just driving by, tabletops filled with knickknacks won’t catch the eye but large furniture, lawn mowers, or electronics will.
Related: The 10 Best Things to Buy Secondhand
6. Mind Your Money
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A forgotten cash box is an easy target for thieves. Use a fanny pack, apron, or pocket to keep money with you at all times. You can also buy a special counterfeit detector pen at an office supply store. Make a mark on the bill—if it turns a different color, it’s counterfeit. Don’t take checks or large bills.
