Sometimes decluttering the house is more than dropping a bag of stuff at a donation center or putting a large armoire on Craigslist. So, why not try to make a little money in the process. Maybe it’s time to consider the good old fashioned Garage Sale (or Yard Sale).
Here are a few tips to make your Garage Sale as successful as possible.
- Start with WHEN – when planning the big event, consider a few things like day(s) of the week, hours of the day, season (not too cold, too hot, too wet), and competing events (don’t go head to head with a big local event).
- Collect Your Items – Ask family members to grab items they are no longer using. Grab a box and search all areas of the house (attic, crawl space, basement, closets, garage). If you haven’t used it in a few year and won’t likely use it in the coming years, it could be a great addition. Don’t worry if it is old or outdated. One persons junk is another persons treasure.
- Permits? – some governments, communities or HOA’s have guidelines for Garage Sales. Do a little quick research.
- Promotion! – There has never been more easier digital ways to promote your day: Craigslist, your Facebook page, or Community Group Pages, like Nextdoor. Find a few and promote a few days before…maybe highlighting some key items or collectables. And don’t forget the good old-fashioned yard sign.
- Sale Day Prepping:
- Chairs, tables, bags, money box, rack space for hanging items
- Cash and other payment methods – get enough change to break $20s and maybe $50s; also consider using electronic payment methods like Venmo, Cash App or Paypal, which are secure and used by many people.
- Price your items – masking tape and a Sharpie are perfect.
- Price items to move! Be prepared to haggle and know what you are willing to negotiate on and what you are not.
- Leftovers – have a plan for the remaining items. Some non-profits will even pick up at your home, so scheduling a pickup for the day after to your garage could be a smart plan.
Have fun, clear the house and help the community!
