A “HOW TO” for Garage Sales
Having a garage sale? Be sure to check to see if you need a permit to have a garage sale? Check with your city or home owners association just to be sure.
Next, you’ll want to let the public know when and where your garage sale will be. Advertise your sale in the local newspapers, this is money well spent. Place signs up to direct customers to your sale, promote special items or themes like “Baby Clothes!” or “Tools”. Again, checky our association rules and city code for signage.
As you prepare, take an inventory. Make a list of all of your items, and what price you will be asking. If you are having a multiple day sale, then be prepared to mark prices down on day two if needed. Place easy to see price tags on each and every item. But if tags fall off, and they will, you’ll have your inventory list as a back up of your asking price.
Like selling a home, if your yard/garage looks clean and inviting, and your items for sale are neatly displayed, you’ll attract more curious buyers. Keep your tables tidy during the sale as toys and items get moved around and looked at.
Ask for help! Having another person around to help with customers and collecting money can be of assistance when your sale gets busy with buyers. Allowing family members to put some “big-ticket” items in your sale will attract attention from buyers as they cruise by your sale. Involve the kids! They can help too. Selling hot dogs, cookies, and soda or water at a small price mark up can be a big money maker for young entrepreneurs as they learn the lessons of supply and demand.
Lastly, before you open for business, make a trip to the bank to be sure you have change handy, plenty of 1’s, 5’s, and coins too. Keep your money in a fanny pack that you can wear and have easy access to, while keeping it safe at your side. Ask for help from friends and family members.
Bring out the salesperson in you and sell that stuff!
