Yard Sale Results

The yard sale is over and I'm pleased with the results! Though having a yard sale is often more work than you anticipate, it is almost always worth it. Here are some tips if you're thinking of having one yourself:

• Place signs with bold, large print out near main roads
• Have a cooler full or drinks (juice boxes, bottled water, etc.) If it's hot out, people may stay longer if they can have a cold drink.
• Attach balloons to your mailbox so that your sale can be spotted easily.
• Have an extension cord ready so buyers can test electronics.
• Use free methods of advertising such as www.craigslist.org, or facebook.
• If you're having a fund-raising yard sale, email friends and ask for donations. Most people would love to be able to get rid of "junk".
• Set up a cd player and have music or radio playing. It can be a little awkward when there's only one person shopping- music helps make the atmosphere more comfortable.
• Be willing to negotiate on price. Many yard-salers will offer less and usually, the offer is reasonable. Remember the goal is to get rid of your stuff!
• Have plenty of plastic grocery bags handy for shoppers.
• Have something you don't think would ever sell? Put it out there anyway! For example, put a $5 price tag on a broken grill (be sure to make it clear that the grill is broken) and stand back. You will be surprised at how often you will not only get rid of an item this way, but actually make a few dollars. That sure beats paying to take it to the dump!
• Price everything. Don't have time for individual price stickers? Have tables on which everything on each table is one price. (ie. the $0.25 table, the $1 table, etc.)
• Place a box of freebies at kid-level. Parents will usually allow kids to have a toy, which allows the parents to shop longer!
• Offer a "special" at the end of your sale. You can say everything is 1/2 off, or fill a bag for $2. This is usually very effective for clearing out the last of your things.

Have fun with your yard sale! It can be a great way to meet neighbors and other folks in your community too.