Yard Sales 101

So... you're taking a Dave Ramsey class are you? Do you need to know how to host the BEST yard sale ever? Want to sell so much stuff the kids think they're next? Here are a few tips for making the most money off your second hand stuff!

1. Location, Location, Location::
Find a friend who lives on a main street or is visible from a main street. The more traffic you have coming past, the more people are going to shop. (If this is not an option for you, make sure your signs are VERY visible and easy to follow. Pick one color and make all your signs that same color.)
2. Bigger is Better::
The larger the yard sale, the more people you will draw. Buddy up! If a neighbor is having a yard sale, hold yours on the same day. Or if you are having a yard sale, let your neighbors know so they can have one too! Large items cause people to stop, so put them in a place visible from the road.
3. In an Orderly Fashion::
Have you ever gone to a yard sale where there was a HUGE box of clothes just sitting there? The price may be right, but the items won't sell because people don't want to take the time to go through "junk". Hang up as many clothing items as possible. Organize kids clothes by size, set up tables to make items more visible.
4. Pricing::
This is a yard sale people, not eBay! Price your items according to the true value, or what YOU would pay for it at a yard sale. The goal is to get rid of stuff as well as make money, so price accordingly and be willing to bargain. If you are firm on a price encourage the interested party to come back after a certain time at which you will lower your price! Make sure all prices are clearly marked. (And please don't price something outrageously because of sentimental value, it's not fair to the people who are looking for a good deal, not a keepsake!)
5. $1.00::
When your yard sale is wrapping up I've found it's easy to get rid of the rest of the stuff by putting out a sign that says "Everything $1.00 or less" I'm amazed at the number of people that will stop and buy an item for $1.00 that I had marked at a dollar all day long!
6. Details::
Have change ready before the day begins. Inevitably the first person to shop at your yard sale will hand you a twenty dollar bill for the 75 cent item they've chosen, so be ready!
Have plenty of plastic and paper bags saved up for the big day. This will encourage people to buy more than their hands can carry.
Do not hold items for someone unless they have paid for the item. Even the kindest looking patron will leave you holding something for them while they find a better bargain at a different yard sale!
7. Have Fun::
Allow the kids to sell their own items. (if you feel up to it, invest in some suckers or Popsicles for them to sell!) Put a smile on your face and engage the shoppers, people who like to make conversation also like to shop!

Hope this will help you gear up for this summer and get a little moolah from your mess.