It’s spring in Minnesota – otherwise known as garage sale season. If you’re looking to unload some old and outgrown clothes, books and household items, a garage sale is the way to go.
Holding a successful garage sale – one that makes you money – isn’t as easy as it may seem. But with a little planning and preparation, you can unload those old items and earn some cash in the process! To help, we’re sharing a few tips from The Penny Hoarder. Please add your own tried and true garage sale advice in the comments, and don’t forget to check out our selection of garage sale rentals!
Timing is everything
The majority of garage sales are held on the weekends. What if you scheduled yours for a weekday? Depending on what you’re selling and your location, holding a sale on a nontraditional day or time could get you extra traffic, and the customers you’re looking for.
Advertise, advertise, advertise
Don’t just put up a few signs and call it good. List your garage sale on Craigslist, Facebook and specialty garage sale websites. And when signing your sale, hang as many as 20 signs. Make sure they’re brightly colored, large and easy to read.
Team up
Ask your neighbors if they’d like to hold sales with you. The larger your sale, the more potential customers you’ll attract.
Set up a pleasant shopping experience
Make your garage look like a retail store, with all the amenities you can offer. Rent tables and clothing racks so shoppers can find items easily and comfortably. Set up a mirror so shoppers can see how they’d look in clothes and accessories, and be prepared to plug in appliances and demonstrate that they work.
Keep things tidy, straightening up throughout the day. If rain is in the forecast, consider renting a tent. Have shopping bags, and most importantly, have enough change!
Price right
A good standard rule is to list items at 10 to 25 percent off original value, but don’t be afraid to negotiate. Consider posting a half off sign near the end of the sale to move items in the final hours.
Ready to start planning your garage sale? From tents to tables and more, Broadway Tent & Event has everything you need to make your garage sale a success.
