Making the Most of Your Yard Sale

Having a yard sale is a great way to get rid of things that you don't use and make some extra cash while doing it. Some yard sales will flop while others will make big money. What's the secret to having a successful yard sale? There isn't any one thing, but a number of things you can do to boost your sales.

Clearly mark all prices. This is the biggest mistake that I see people make. The cost savvy consumer will want to know up front what a bargain that they will or won't be getting. It avoids any confusion and maximizes your selling potential. Avoid mistakes such as not marking dollars and cents properly. No one wants to have to ask how much each item is that they are considering purchasing. This is especially true if you have many prospective customers.

Organization is key. Don't just throw the items out there. Separate adult clothing items from child apparel and keep it simple. It may help to mark the sizes somewhere on the tag the price is on. Keep clothing in order in terms of size as well. The chances are the shopper will not go through your mess all day to see if you have a particular size. Organizing in this manner allows the yard sale patron to find what it is they are looking for with minimal time and effort.

Make sure that all items are clean. I don't care what it is. If you were to go to a yard sale and the items were unclean, you would leave. I can guarantee you that others will do the same. You are trying to sell the items, the least you can do is clean them.

The yard sale should not only look friendly and inviting, but make the customer feel welcome. Make sure that there is adequate parking available. Offer assistance when necessary and make small talk. This increases the likelihood that they will buy something.

Rule of thumb, do not put junk in a yard sale. If it should be in the garbage, do not try to make a quick buck off of it. Not only is this rude but people will be less likely to come to future yard sales. If there are items that are worn or slightly defective, tell the consumer when you see that they are interested. They will appreciate your honesty.

Be realistic, it's a yard sale. You may have paid $50 for a pair of jeans, but you won't sell them for $25. People go to a yard sale to find bargains, not pay Wal Mart prices. Be willing to work with the customer if they try to price haggle. Consider the item you are selling, is it really overpriced?

Another thing worth mentioning, your children and family pets. Tie your dog up prior to starting the yard sale. No matter how friendly, strangers do not know this. They may find it intimidating. Keep your children on good behavior and do not allow them to play with the sale items. These two things will turn away just about any customer.

Having a yard sale is one of the quickest way to make a few extra dollars. Plan in advance and stick to these simple tips. There's nothing difficult about it, it's common sense. If you find that your yard sale still didn't do very well, consider things such as your location and the items you have to offer. Some items are just easier to sell than others.