Ellen Phillips In referencing the “summer” theme, it’s been awhile since this column featured yard/garage sales. And since summer is the primary time for many folks to hold these decluttering and (hopeful) money-makers, it never hurts to both iterate tried-and-true methods, as well as new suggestions for a successful event. Freelancer Kristen Pope on ThePennyHoarder site, among others, is chock full of ideas to help us in the planning.
» Try a new timetable. Most people traditionally hold their sales on the weekend, thus involving their project with a lot of competition. Lots of estate sellers have the right idea; they often begin the activity on a Wednesday or Thursday. Buyers – especially serious individuals – scan the paper and seize the opportunity to attend an early sale, often the only one or one of a very few to be held during those days or even earlier in the week. Another method is to piggyback on a nearby estate sale. These sales are usually heavily advertised and extremely well attended so jump on their band wagon to ensure browsers and buyers at your own house.
» Heavily advertise. Don’t simply place an ad in the local paper or online nor just hang a few signs. If we really want to line our pockets (think about that vacation kitty), it’s important to use in-your-face advertising. For instance: 1) Buy up at least 20-30 pieces of colored poster paper at the dollar store – money well spent, trust me. Forget a pile of text; rather, the stark info written in magic marker. The day before, put up a few closest to your home/neighborhood with a simple (large) arrow that points to your location with the word SALE. If certain pieces are specialty items, write that word in, such as “ANTIQUES,” “COMPUTERS” or post a photo. Mentioning appealing items in your ads will entice would-be buyers to your spot. 2) Utilize social media, including Facebook yard/garage sale groups or local venues, such as NextDoor to reel people in.
» Group similar items together. For example, all garden supplies in one corner and all books in another. (To set an even better mood for the latter is to fill a bookcase to look more like a library.) Along this same line, bundling is a great idea, too. “5 books for $2,” for example draws the eye (and the opened wallet).
» Plan a neighborhood yard sale. Again, the bigger event, the better so far as potential customers are concerned.