How to Make Extra Cash On a Yard Sale
With many Americans squeezing every penny out of their budget, holding a yard sale can be a great way to come up with extra cash. A successful yard sale can net you $500 to $1,000 or more in one day. The following information will give you tips to preparing and hosting a great sale that will earn you the most money possible.
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Instructions
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Prepare for your sale in advance. Consider the weather when you plan and though rain may not cancel your day of sales, it can make it more difficult to host the event. Even when the weather looks good, make sure to have alternative plan like having space to move the sale items indoors, if needed. See if other neighbors are interested in a sale. Grouping together a few homes or a block sale, for example, can really bring a crowd of buyers.
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Once the planning is done, ask if your neighbors are interested in having a sale. Grouping together a few homes or a block sale, for example, can really bring a crowd of buyers, improving your chances of solid financial returns.
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Select and price your Items. Selecting what to sell can be more difficult than you think. Set aside time to sort through your sale items and apply price stickers. A good rule of thumb is that if you have not used an item in more than 12 months, you can do without it. Remember to price your items with realistic expectations. Although you may have a sentimental value attached, grandma's favorite old sweater, for example, you have to price it under current market value to get it moved quickly. Be ready to accept about 10 percent less than you price it at. People go to yard sales expecting to get a bargain. If they can buy it new at a store for about 10 percent more than what you are asking, chances are, they will go for the new one. Be sure to do a quick cleaning of the merchandise you put out for sale. A dusty picture frame can look less appealing than a clean one.
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Be ready to sell. Post signs, advertise if you can and spread the word. Make sure you have change available. If a buyer only has a $20 bill for your $11 item, you have to be able to give her change. You would hate to lose a sale because you are unprepared. Make sure the sale is manned during the entire day. If a potential buyer drives buy and does not see anyone, he may think you left for a lunch break, for example. Buyers also want to feel comfortable sifting through your old items. Personal stories are best kept to yourself. If buyers feel you have an attachment to a particular item, they may not feel right making you an offer. Be impartial, polite, helpful and give them space to look at your merchandise. Keep an open ear. You may overhear them saying they really like something, but it is priced a little too high. Coming down 10 percent may seal the deal.
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Tips & Warnings
If people think you are moving or if "everything must go," they may think they are in for a deal. But be prepared; if you seem desperate, the offers may come in much lower than what you are looking for. If the weather is warm, be sure to wear sunscreen and comfortable clothing. Setting up a side lemonade stand at your sale is a great idea during the summer and can help you bring a bit more money.
Don't let buyers in your home. It is best to keep the sale outside and do not introduce people to your children.
