Tips for Hosting a Yard Sale
Hosting a yard sale can be a clever way to declutter your home, especially when you need additional space or are moving to a new house. It’s not only a great way to clear out unwanted items, but it is also a chance to make some extra cash. Planning a successful yard sale may feel overwhelming, but with the right organization and preparation, it can be a breeze.
We’ve compiled some essential garage sale tips to help you learn how to host a yard sale successfully and clear out clutter by finding it a new home.
Best Items for Garage Sales
When you’re deciding what to sell, think about what buyers might want rather than merely getting rid of every piece of junk you find shoved in drawers and closets. Here are some secondhand belongings that tend to sell well at these sales:
- Gently used clothing. If you have jackets, shoes, or hats that no longer fit or aren’t getting used, a yard sale is a perfect chance to pass them on to someone else who may take a liking to your sense of style.
- Tools. Tools are popular items at garage sales. Whether they are gardening tools, old power tools, or unused equipment, they usually sell quickly. Make sure to have an outlet available so shoppers can test electrical tools.
- Furniture. If you have good-quality furniture you no longer need, it could be just what a first-time homeowner or college student is looking for. Vintage furniture also attracts hobbyists who want to restore pieces.
- Toys. If your kids have outgrown their toys, these can be perfect for your yard sale. Additionally, collectible toys like action figures and Beanie Babies can draw the attention of seasoned collectors.
- Books. Avid readers are always looking for new titles. Sell some of the books you no longer need, and they’ll be gone in no time. Don’t forget to include any baby or children’s books your kids have outgrown.
- Vintage dishes and glassware. Items like vintage plates, drinking glasses, and jars can be popular, especially for buyers looking for unique pieces to add to their homes.
What Not To Sell at a Garage Sale
Not everything belongs at a yard sale. Here are some things you should avoid selling:
- Homemade crafts. Unless you’re a well-known artist or an Etsy entrepreneur, homemade crafts may have trouble finding a buyer.
- Broken toys. Toys with missing parts or damage will be a hard sell, so avoid putting them out.
- Tupperware. Food containers that are missing lids or stained don’t usually attract customers.
- Worn-out cookware. Rusty or scratched pans are not only unattractive but unsafe for use.
- Clothing with excessive wear, holes, or damage. Items in poor condition may not be suitable for resale.
Pricing Your Items
To make your yard sale a success, price your items within reason. People visit garage sales looking for bargains, so your prices should be significantly lower than the original retail price. A good rule of thumb to follow is the 50-30-10 pricing method:
- 50% of the original price for brand-new or unused items
- 30% of the original price for lightly used items
- 10% of the original price for well-worn items
How To Get Rid of Storage Unit Stuff
If you’re cleaning out a storage unit and looking to declutter even further, hosting a yard sale could be the perfect way to get rid of items. It’s a great opportunity to part ways with unused belongings from your storage unit that simply take up space. For things you can’t sell, consider donating or recycling them. If you struggle to clear out everything, you can also look into self storage options to keep the rest of your items organized until you figure out the next step.
Bargaining Tips
Bargaining can help you get rid of items quickly. If someone offers a lower price, try to meet in the middle. However, we suggest waiting until later in the sale to bargain, as many customers may be willing to pay the price you’ve listed, especially for popular items.
Planning for the Day of Your Sale
Running a yard sale requires more than just setting up items on tables. Here’s how to organize your sale for success:
- Be an early bird. Start your sale early in the morning, giving you the best chance to catch early risers. Saturdays are typically the best day, while Sunday mornings may be busier with other commitments.
- Gain proper permissions. Some cities require a permit to host a garage sale. Check your local regulations and apply for a permit if needed.
- Organize your sale. Make your garage sale easy to navigate by organizing items into common yard sale categories, separating into clothing, books, toys, and whatever else you plan on selling.
- Devise garage sale display ideas. Hanging clothing and grouping similar items will help buyers see what you have and make shopping more enjoyable. Be sure to label everything with clear price tags.
- Head to the bank. Have plenty of cash and coins on hand to make change and break large bills.
Promoting Your Yard Sale
Like any event planner, you’ll need to get the word out to attract customers.
- Shout it out online. Post your sale on Facebook, Craigslist, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Don’t forget to include pictures of your best items. You can also use sites like Yard Sale Search and Garage Sale Finder.
- Create a fun sign. A catchy sign can make your sale stand out. Use bright colors or humorous phrases to grab attention.
- Encourage folks to stay a while. Set a fun, welcoming atmosphere by playing music and offering refreshments, encouraging shoppers to stick around longer.
Store Extra Belongings at Self Storage Plus
If your yard sale doesn’t clear everything out, or if you’re just out of space, your possessions don’t necessarily need to head for the trash or thrift store. Self Storage Plus offers various sizes and types of storage units, including storage with drive-up access that makes it easy to load and unload unsold items. Beyond drive-up storage units, our convenient storage options include climate-controlled storage units, helping you keep your belongings organized in a regulated environment and giving you peace of mind.
Contact us today to find the perfect unit for your needs at a storage facility near you!