Pricing
Before you start, if there is an item that you're unsure of its value, try to get it appraised before you place a $10 ticket on it. You could be giving away something valuable.If you have a lot of stuff to sell, try to pre-price your items, using stickers. Don't ask too much; remember you're trying to find a new home for your things.
The general rule of thumb is that if an item is still in its box or you still have the box and instructions, for things such as kitchen appliances or kids toys, it's safe to ask one quarter of the original price.
Make sure all electronics have cords or extensions and that there's an outlet available for testing.
Kids clothes should be greatly reduced and adults even more since there won't be a place for people to try on items.
If you don't have time to pre-price items, place similarly priced pieces on the same table then mark the table with a posted price. This works especially well for small trinkets and children's toys. Setting up a dollar table and placing visible signs will draw people in.
And don't give anything away that you could sell. If you have items that alone might only be worth 25 cents, bundle them together and ask for a set price: 4 books for $1 or 6 wine glasses for $5. Bundling will save you counting change and the customer feels they're getting a better deal.
Make sure everything you put out is clean and in good shape. Keep your tables tidy and your things organized. Place attractive items where they'll be clearly visible from the street. Items such as lawn furniture or tools are great at drawing people in.
Safety
- Have a fully charged cell phone on hand.
- Place signs on all doors stating that they are "off limits". If someone asks to use a washroom, direct them to a local store or restaurant. You don't want strangers wandering through your home.
- Use a money belt and keep at least $50 of change on hand. Cash boxes are too easy to steal.
- Keep high-ticket items closer to the house where you can keep an eye on them.
- Set up your tables outside the garage so you can be seen easily from the street. Have plastic sheets on hand in case it rains.
- Don't leave children or teens alone; make sure at least two adults are always present and visible.
Post Sale
Count your earnings, donate any leftovers, then thank your neighbors and friends.And don't forget to take down all signs! Don't leave paper on posts or direction signs for late garage salers to find. Be kind to the environment and your neighbors and clean up afterward.
Above all, have fun and happy saling!
