How to Organize a Profitable Yard Sale
Make it a family project as someone needs to be available constantly to make change. This will also discourage anyone from taking without paying.
First, before you publicize the yard sale spend the necessary time to scour the attic, the cellar and go way into the back of those closets we all have. You will need a garage or spare room to start sorting clothing, jewelry sporting goods etc.
Once you have the items you want to sell you are ready to schedule the sale by advertising in your local newspaper. Many folks have a Friday, Saturday and Sunday sale. If you have good luck and most everything sells right away stop after Saturday. You are not obligated to be there on Sunday even if you did advertise the sale. Folks will understand that you probably priced items low and everything was sold.
Don’t rely solely on the newspaper. You would be surprised by the number of people who drive around looking for yard sale signs. Place clear hand written signs on all corners leading to your home. Use arrows etc. The clearer the directions the more people who show up. Tip: Place balloons on the sign to get more attention.
For the day of the sale you will need a few items to make your life easier:
1. Use an old cupcake tin to keep your coins separate.
2. An old fishing box is a great place to keep bills separate and safe.
3. Use a carpenter’s apron with pockets in front. Keep change separate. Bills on one side and loose change on the other.
4. Have a black marker pen for pricing
The hours of the sale are up to you but a good spread is Friday Noon-5:00, Saturday 8-2 p.m., and Sunday 9:00-1:00 p.m.. Most of your activity will be from early birds on Friday and Saturday. As stated above eliminate Sunday if most of your items are already sold. We frequently put out a box marked free on Sunday just to eliminate what is left. Also consider donating the leftovers to a local Hospice or church group.
For a few weeks before the sale save those plastic/paper grocery store bags. People tend to buy more if they have something to carry it in.
Remember you will need change and small bills. Without it you will lose sales. We suggest $100 in change. $50 in 1s, $30 in 5s and $20 in 10s. Also make sure you have an ample supply of quarters as most items will in .25 increments.
Note a few cities require permits for yard sales. This is not enforced rigidly but it’s best to inquire before scheduling.
I strongly suggest not keeping things in boxes. Display them properly so people can see what is for sale. The only exception is to leave a box or two so treasure hunters will be happy.
Don’t take checks! If someone doesn’t have all the cash needed ask for a healthy deposit and put then put the item aside for later pickup. If they don’t return you at least have the deposit.
This next tidbit will help if you have a local Spanish population.
Use your computer and print this up a few times.
English:
Everything is reasonably priced and WELL BELOW RETAIL. Please NO HAGGLING. Discounts can be given based on quantity listed below.
Spanish:
Todo a precio muy razonable y MUY POR DEBAJO DE PRECIO EN TIENDAS. Por favor no REGATEAR. Descuentos por mayoreo descritos abajo.
Follow the above guidelines, price your used items fairly and you will have a successful yard sale.
