Yard Sale

Yard Sale - Tag Sale! Whatever you call it, this is our favorite way to clear out all that stuff and make a little friendly cash.

It's not just pack rats that hang on to unused items. Take a look at the far corners of your home and you'll probably be amazed at all the things you no longer use or need. It's time to get down to business and clear the way.

Begin by setting a date and time that will allow you to devote your full attention to this sale. A yard sale can take plenty of time and energy, so have a good plan in mind. Will you have your sale on one day or several? Do you have an appropriate place to hold your sale - the front or back yard or in the garage? Do you want to partner with other families or maybe the whole neighborhood?

Now, get down to business. A sale is work, but the returns more than justify the effort. Clean out your closets and anything that is useless to you or you don't want - put it in the sale. One person's trash may be another person's goldmine!

Of course you need to advertise. You can run an ad in your daily newspaper and notify any organizations you might be affiliated with. Most of them have newsletters and are happy to include your information. Be specific, concise and honest. State the address, date and hours. If you have a large amount of clothing, indicate sizes and whether they are for adults or children. This will save disappointment. Place signs where people can see them and ask your neighborhood retailers if they have bulletin boards.

On the day of the sale, have plenty of change on hand and be sure to keep it in a secure place. Fanny packs or aprons with pockets will work just fine. Merchandise your treasures. Be sure everything is clean, useable and has a tempting price. Place items together and display your wares as attractively as possible. Have outlets ready for testing electronics. If you have any fragile, rare or expensive items such as crystal, cut glass or jewelry, be sure it is displayed on a sturdy table and out of reach from children. Don't be afraid to drag out those outgrown items, old dishes and two-of-a-kind items you don't really need. You'll find the money in your pocket is better than all the clutter in the house.

Arrange to have your remaining treasures picked up the day after the sale. Your donation to some worthy charity is tax deductible and will help someone in need. Resolve now not to bring these leftovers back into the house!


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