Planning and Setting Up Your Yard Sale

• 1). Take stock of what you have to sell and make sure that your items are in good condition. Make an itemized list of what you have. Call your family, friends and neighbors to see whether you can enlist them in joining forces for a multifamily sale. The more things that you have to sell the better, and by bringing others into the mix you also increase the variety of products, which can help draw in a more diverse customer base. Each family can have their own section at the yard sale, or you can agree in advance to split all proceeds equally. Think about how long you want your sale to last. Most people only have a one-day sale, typically on a Saturday. What they don't realize is that a second or even third day will likely increase profits substantially, especially if your house is on or near a main road.
  
  
• 2). If there is a charity or nonprofit organization whose work you admire, consider donating a portion of your garage sale proceeds to the cause. Contact them in advance to get permission to use their name at your sale. Most shoppers will appreciate the kind gesture and will be glad to know that some of their money is going toward the greater good. And you, in turn, are helping make a difference.
  
  
• 3). Make sure that your sale will truly have "something for everyone" and that it's family friendly. There should be items that appeal to men, women and children. That way when you advertise, people are more apt to bring their spouse and children. The more shoppers you have, the more likely it is that each one will find something that catches her eye.
  
  
• 4). Consider selling something on the side in addition to your unwanted household items. This is a great way to make a few extra bucks. For example, if it is a hot day, you could offer bottled juice or water for a small fee. These things can be bought in bulk at any warehouse club or supermarket. If it's springtime and you have the room and know-how, consider growing a few herb, flower or vegetable plants from seed and sell them individually or per tray. Small, inexpensive handcrafted items can also be great impulse purchases.
  
  
• 5). Start planning the layout of your yard sale. On a piece of paper determine where everything will go. High-ticket items such as furniture and electronics should be prominently placed: in other words, right on the front lawn with a big sign briefly outlining what they are and what they cost. Consider arranging the tables in a big U- or L-shape across your lawn. That way people are likely to follow the line and view everything. The more expensive or interesting items should be located where they can be seen from the street because they may entice drivers to stop. Clothing should be neatly folded on tables or displayed on hanging racks. Everything at the sale should be on tables. While some people love seeking out buried treasure, the people who are looking to spend usually know what they want, and if they find it, they'll buy it. Don't make your yard sale guests crouch down to look for things. The only items that belong at ground level are toys because you want them to be easily accessible by kids. Place a pretty blanket on the floor and display the toys attractively. Make sure that every single item has a price tag on it so shoppers don't have to ask. The day before the sale, hang signs in the neighborhood that provide directions with large arrows. Place balloons and a sign in front of your house.
  
  
• 6). Put an ad in your local paper and include detailed information about the nature of what you're selling. Try to mention things that are of interest to men, women and children. Use your computer to make a few printouts to advertise your yard sale. Place them on community message boards in your area and on the bulletin boards at your local supermarkets, where you can post the information for free. Also consider placing a free ad on Craigslist under the garage sale section.
  
  
• 7). Make sure you have at least $50 in small bills to be able to make change when you host your sale. Not everyone is going to give you the exact amount when they make a purchase.
  
  

During the Sale

• 1). Be sure to encourage early birds. While most sellers dislike the idea of folks showing up on their lawn at 7 a.m., these can actually be some of your best customers. Make sure that you're outside an hour or so before your yard sale is set to begin.
  
  
• 2). Be personable, friendly and outgoing with shoppers throughout the day. Remember, you're a salesperson and you want to move as much merchandise as possible. You don't have to be pushy or impose a hard sell. Just ask people how they are and whether they need help looking for anything specific.
  
  
• 3). If you are selling children's toys, make this area colorful and fun. Not only will it draw the attention of the parents, but the kids will be glad to go through the toys while Mom and Dad shop for other things.
  
  
• 4). Be open to bargaining. If someone offers you a reasonable amount for an item that is less than the asking price, negotiate and try to come up with a middle ground. It's all about moving the merchandise and making the sale. It's not worth being stubborn about your unwanted belongings.
  
  
• 5). After the sale, package up anything that did not sell and bring it back inside. Donate anything you do not want or can't use to a thrift store. Count the proceeds from your sale and remember to set aside the appropriate amount to give to charity if you chose that option. Then enjoy the success of your sale, along with well-deserved rest.