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Yard Sales: Money Savers and Makers
Practically everyone has either attended
a yard sale or hosted one of their own at some point in their life. Right?
Yard sales provide that perfect opportunity for people to either buy merchandise
at incredible low prices, or sell that "stuff" that's all around the house.
You can find practically everything at yard sales: clothes, instruments,
stereos, furniture, automotive parts and equipment, electronics, computers,
and the list goes on and on.
If you happen to have an excess of "stuff" lying around, think about hosting
a yard sale of your own. You might find yourself making $50-$400 on a Saturday
or Sunday.
Here are some tips on both hosting your own yard sale and also tips to help
you shop more efficiently at them:
Hosting a Yard Sale
*Have all items clearly marked. The better the appearance, layout, and
organization, the more people will be inclined to spend their money at your
yard sale.
*Don't pile heaps of clothes on a table. Hang clothes if possible. They'll
sell much better.
*Be prepared to haggle. People come to yard sales expecting to haggle,
so don't be offended. That's the nature of yard sales.
*Make signs and place them in visible high traffic locations Be sure to check
with your local city ordinance and see if sign posting is legal in your
area.
*Make your yard sale very appealing. Hang balloons and ribbons. Have all
your merchandise neatly arranged and tagged with prices.
*MOST IMPORTANT* Try and organize a "Once a Year" street sale. Talk about
it with your neighbors and have them spread the word around. Advertise it
everywhere (as will all your other neighbors), and be prepared. Yard sale
shoppers LOVE block sales!
Buying at Yard Sales
*Get out early if you want the first pickings. As the saying goes: 'Early
Bird gets the Worm'
*Check your local paper the night before and plan the route that you'll take.
This is a real time saver instead of just driving around town.
*Don't be shy about asking the seller for a lower price. Everyone tries to
bargain at yard sales.
*If you don't see something you want, ask. They might just have it inside
and be willing to sell it if the price is right.
*MOST IMPORTANT* People are very willing to bargain towards the end of the
day. They are tired and would rather give it away instead of having to pack
it and move it back inside the house. Offer a very LOW price!
What's Related:
My Junk, Your Treasure
Garage Sale Survival Tips
Yard Sale Etiquette
More Frugal Articles
About the Author
Gregory Thomas is the owner of Saving Secrets at
http://www.SavingSecrets.com, an online
magazine of money saving tips.
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