Yard Sale 101

Organizing experts Pam Hix and Louise Kurzeka provide tips for running a yard sale.

Figure A

• If running a multifamily yard sale, consider using color-coded dot stickers (figure A) for price labels.

• When an item is sold, transfer the sticker into a notebook. By keeping the stickers separated according to color, the job of recapping each family's proceeds will be easier along the way.

Figure B

When writing the advertisement for the sale, mention the big-ticket items such as furniture, tools or children's clothing (figure B).

The day before the sale, mow the lawn, water the garden and sweep the walk and driveway. An attractive home invites more activity. In addition, make sure the home is secure by locking all entrances during the sale.

Figure C

When making signs for the sale, neon backgrounds are the most visible and are the most likely to bring shoppers (figure C). Use large lettering and directional arrows to its location, and display the best sign on the busiest road near the sale.

Have on hand extra price labels, markers, a measuring tape and an extension cord plugged into an electrical outlet. These items will come in very handy.

Arrange merchandise by placing items into categories, such as books in one area, household goods in another and electronics in another.

Make bulk deals, such as $1 each or two for $1.75. People love to get a deal, and deals make items sell faster.

When pricing merchandise, place tags in an easy-to-see spot, clearly labeling the price. Don't use masking tape for pricing on any item that might be damaged by the adhesive.

Big-ticket items should be the first thing that people see as they arrive at the sale. Use the driveway or yard area by the street to display these items.

Figure D

Wear a fanny pack worn around your waist for a great cash box (figure D). It's always there when needed and won't be easily carried off!

If there are several items that need repair such as broken appliances or games missing several pieces, consider setting up a free table. The free sign will definitely attract shoppers, and an alternative home may be found for those items that would otherwise be thrown out.

Set up a free box with small toys for your shoppers' children to look through while parents shop. Limit it to one item per child to keep an ample supply throughout the sale.

Another way to occupy children is to provide sidewalk chalk for them to draw on the sidewalk or driveway. When space fills, just hose it down to clean.

Consider taking a half-price markdown for the last hour of the sale (or last day of a multiday sale) to clear out as much merchandise as possible.

Guests
Pam Hix
Organization Consultant, Everything's Together Organizing Services
13012 June Terrace
Minnetonka, MN 55305-2740
Phone: 952-939-8080
E-mail: pjhix@aol.com

Louise Kurzeka
Organization Expert, Everything's Together Organizing Services
Minnetonka, MN
Phone: 952-939-8080
Website: www.everythingstogether.com
Also in this Episode

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-170
•	Spring Cleaning
•	Yard and Garden Equipment
•	Yard Sale 101
•	Tip of the Day