Thursday, January 31, 2008

Yard Sale Checklist to plan your garage sale

Purpose
A yard sale is to get rid of things. Sell on ebay or craigslist if you want top dollar.

Recommendations
  • group sale
  • be ready the night before
  • price carefully
  • label well
  • do not bad mouth your items
  • be less flexible at the start and willing to bargain as the day goes on
  • write down each item and how much you sold it for
  • keep money on you not in cash box
  • check all pockets and purses to make sure you are not giving away hidden valuables
  • schedule on a non-holiday weekend and on paydays (1st and 15th)
  • give friends/family boxes weeks ahead of time if they want to get rid of stuff at your sale
  • let your neighbors know ahead of time (may evolve into a block sale)
  • post a start time
  • Move your cars so others will have room to park
List of stuff you need
  • roll of quarters
  • 25 singles
  • 2-3 fives
  • paper & pen
  • purse, fanny pack, or deep pockets to keep money on you
  • large boxes for signs and makeshift tables
  • rocks to weigh down sign boxes
  • blankets and/or table cloths
  • radio
  • paper and/or poster board
  • tape
  • markers
  • print outs of amazon/ebay info for more expensive items
  • extension cord & batteries to test electronics
  • ice and drinks for sellers and to sell
  • place to hang clothes
  • tall mirror
  • hangers
  • masking tape or colored dots for pricing
  • calculator
  • newspapers and small boxes for items sold that need packaging
  • tape measure
Setting Up Shop
  • Have a collector's or boutique section or table for stuff of higher value
  • highly desirable items near road
  • if you don't have tables, you can stack large boxes and lay a blanket over them
  • play background music (that everyone will love-like johnny cash)
  • categories like shoes all at the same price point makes things easier on everyone
  • offer bulk discounts (ie. 5 for a dollar on 25 cent items)
  • free section
  • sort by size
  • provide changing area and mirror if you are able
  • $1 or less section
  • $5 or less section
  • rug or blanket on ground for toys and play area
  • put cash table near the entrance
  • specialty sections like kitsch or vintage to attract buyers who value those items
  • "10 cents" box

Getting the word out
  • advertise
  • post on craigslist
  • simple yet effective signs (large card board box as sign)
  • sign's with big bold text!
  • free classifieds

Closing Time
  • slash prices or move stuff to free section
  • TAKE SIGNS DOWN
  • donate to charity with a pick up service if you have a lot of huge items

Resources:

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