Spring may still be a few months away, but I am already doing some major “spring cleaning.” We been out of town for a few weeks and I am only now trying to find a place for all of the goods we acquired over the holidays. I am a mom on a mission. My mantra: purge, purge, purge. If it were a few degrees warmer I would be planning a garage sale, but unfortunately we live an area where rummage sales go on a winter hiatus. So even if I posted a sign advertising a sale most people around here would consider it a joke. That said I still believe garage sales are great venues to sell unwanted household items.
From clothing to toys, tools and slogan buttons, nothing is off limits at a garage sale. And remember, garage sales attract a unique bunch of people—those fueled by the prospect of adding to a personal collection. That’s one of the things that drives a person out to a garage sale weekend after weekend.
I may not be a die-hard garage sale shopper, but I will admit you can find things in the strangest places. What’s more, I find it very interesting to see what people are getting rid of. And there’s always the chance you may find a treasure worthy of “Antiques Roadshow.” Of course, most attend yard sales in search of bargains. While still others enjoy the idea of rubbing elbows with fellow early birds. (Personally, I avoid getting in the way of these aggressive “early birds”—I find these “professionals” can be a bit intimidating.)
If you are interested in getting a great deal on some gently used merchandise, but have never been to a garage sale you may consider keeping these buyers’ tips in mind:
Have Realistic Expectations. Don’t get your hopes up too high. It’s great to be excited about the possibility of finding something just sitting there, but don’t expect that a true treasure will be at every yard sale.
Learn The Art of Negotiation. It never hurts to make an offer. Who knows– they just might take it.
Focus. Don’t try to hit all the sales listed in the paper. Running from sale to sale doesn’t allow you time to focus on finding real treasures.
Research. A garage sale is different from an estate sale and an auction.
If you are like me and are itching to host a garage sale of your own you may want to consider these tips before hanging up the signs:
Spend Time On Your Displays. Make sure all your items are clean, then place the merchandise that might sell faster near the front. Also, it’s a good idea to group similar items together.
Research. Check out other garage sales in your area. Compare prices and items.
Call Your Friends. Consider asking friends or neighbors if they want join in a multi-family garage sale.
Post Signs. Make sure they are made of durable material. Include the time, date, address and a nearby landmark. Place them in high-traffic areas.
Place Ads. If you decide to place an ad in the local paper be sure it runs the day before and the day of the sale. List antiques for collectors and dealers. Also, if you’re selling clothes, list sizes.
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