Tips for Successful Yard Sales

Tips for Successful Yard Sales

A garage sale is a great way to free up space and make money doing it. However, it isn’t something you can just throw together at the last minute if you want it to succeed. To make the most of your time, here are some tips for holding a yard sale.

Check Permits and Ordinances

Each local government has different regulations concerning yard sales. Some are very lax, while others might shut down your operation and fine you if you don’t have a permit. Make sure you know the laws about permits, posting signs and paying taxes in advance.

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Advertise Your Yard Sale

Pick a date you plan on holding your yard sale, then advertise for it. This is more than just putting up a sign on the closest intersection (which you should still do). Post about the yard sale on Facebook, have friends share the post and look towards community pages that allow you to share information. You may even want to consider creating an ad in the local newspaper.

Make Change

You need a good amount of change when running a yard sale, so go to the bank and pick up a few rolls plus bills. If you don’t need the money in the end you can deposit it back, but you don’t want to miss out on business if you don’t have change.

Price Your Items

You need to price your items to sell. Naturally there will be some haggling but the vast majority of people will just give you the price straight. Know what your items are worth and price them so interested buyers are more likely to purchase them. Here is a great guide to pricing your yard sale goods.

Sort and Organize

Make it easy for people to see what you have and put similar items together. It takes a little bit of planning, but the more organized you are the more items you’ll sell because people can see what’s available.

Engage with Customers

By greeting everyone who wanders in, you put them at ease and identify yourself as the person they will talk to if they want to buy something. You don’t want to create a high-pressure sales environment, but a friendly hello will help people feel welcome to browse, ask and buy.

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