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Recession: Beginning Of The End?

How To Operate A Garage Sale

by: sahil | last updated: August 28, 2009
Category: Saving on Everything | Tags: Garage sales.

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How To Operate A Garage Sale

Garage sales were traditionally used for disposing off old and unused items. Not any more. As recession takes its toll and unemployment increases, people are finding themselves in need of cash just for survival. No matter what the reason, garage sales can turn out to be successful if some simple things are taken into consideration.

Cruel decisions. If you are conducting a garage sale because of dwindling finances then you may need to be a little cruel on your cherished belongings. Ask yourself if you really need that toaster or the exercise equipment or the decorative pieces. If you are facing bankruptcy or expecting to file for one then the answer would probably be no. Don’t hesitate to keep as many items on the sale as possible. This is because usually, many remain unsold.

Start early. Planning and starting early will definitely help in collecting and arranging the items that are to be put up for sale. Try to plan at least two weeks in advance so that you have ample time to advertise as well as prepare for the sale. Avoid holidays as many customers are busy spending quality time and may not turn up for the sale. Conducting the sale on weekdays is a better option.

Location. The most important factor that will influence the sale is the location. Provide accurate information and nearest landmarks when you advertise. This will ensure a steady flow of customers. Putting up banners that lead to the location of the sale is another way to attract passers-by. Be precise about the date and timing of the sale and try to conduct them at peak traffic hours.

Sale items. If possible start collecting the items from the beginning of the year so that you can keep them aside and preserve their quality. Price the items individually and make sure that the price tag is securely attached. Collect similar priced items and place them together so that it will be easier for the customers to choose according to their price range. If you have electrical items on sale then provide an extension cord that connects them to an electrical outlet.

Accounting. Make sure that you do not delegate this responsibility to anyone else; keep a calculator handy and also make sure you have lots of coins and paper money. Keep the cash box locked since you may have to wander away from it to show or explain something to customers. Set the prices at least twenty to thirty percent lower than the original price of the item and be ready to bargain and sell them at a lesser price.

Keep it tidy. Many people are not used to selling things and making a clutter will turn out to be problematic and will decrease the sales. Make sure that the most attractive items are kept in plain view and are neat and clean. This will attract customers and assure them of finding quality items. If you are conducting a sale with your relatives then mention this fact in the advertisement.

Advertisements. There are many ways of advertising your garage sale including on the internet, in newspapers, or through posters and signs. The best way is to advertise wherever possible. Frugal choices include Craigslist and other internet sites. You can also advertise on lamp posts and trees. Sounds crude but it usually works and is free.

After sale sales. After the sale is over there are usually a lot of items that are not sold. These can be sold to a thrift store or a dollar store. Avoid keeping them as their value will decrease as time passes. If these items are not sold at these stores as well then it is better to donate them to a charity store instead of keeping them.

For a few dollars more. Garage sales are booming as more and more people face the repercussions of this recession which many say is worse than the great depression. There are many people who want to buy items at discounted prices and it is perhaps a cruel paradox that this recession is the perfect time for conducting a garage sale.

References and further reading: wisegeek.com, www.reuters.com