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How to hold and price for a rummage sale

Member
By Beveronius
User-Submitted Article
(10 Ratings)

Are there items in your house that you no longer use that have value? Do you have clothes that you no longer wear or do not fit? You might be a candidate for a garage sale ... sometimes referred to as a rummage sale.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Pen to mark prices
  • Stickers to post prices
  • Calculator
  • Free time
  • Marketing strategy
  1. Step 1

    Put together a marketing strategy. Some neighborhoods get together and everyone shares this responsibility. If holding one on your own, put up signs and contemplate whether to post an ad in the local paper. Make sure you include times - start early in the day!!

  2. Step 2

    Gather multiple tables together to display items. Consider setting up the items on the tables ahead of time and then all you may have to do is pull the tables to the location outdoors or indoors.

  3. Step 3

    If pooling together with your neighbors, be sure to keep track of items that are sold via well-labeled tags. Be sure all items are tagged with initials and price. Then, on a piece of paper at register, keep a log of who sold what amount.

  4. Step 4

    On the day of the sale, greet each guest and be on hand to answer questions of guests. Be sure you are knowledgeable of each item in case users ask specific questions - particularly if the owner is not present.

  5. Step 5

    If an item has a defect, be sure to post the issue on the item - ensure the defect is appropriately figured into the price of the item.

  6. Step 6

    Be sure you are pricing for the crowd. What would you buy each item for? If an antique, be sure you know its value - you may have a hidden treasure and not even know it!

Tips & Warnings
  • Electronics seem to go fast
  • Baby clothes sell well overall
  • Be aware the people are traditionally looking for a deal - it is ok to say no is someone tries to low ball you

Comments  

JasneJ said

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on 6/16/2008 All excellent tips.Thanks.

dceclint said

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on 3/26/2008 Alot of work, but can make money on things jsut taking up space. The marketing information is good too!

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