Scripps Howard News Service
How to hunt
- Look in the newspaper the night before for classified ads of sales. Figure out a route and stick to it, only stopping at other sales on that route.
- Shop early for the best selection. Don't wait until Saturday. If the sale starts Thursday, go that day.
- Pack snacks and drinks in the car to avoid any unnecessary stops.
- Cary cash in small bills. -- Have an open mind as to what you may find.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Nab a friend or two to go with you.
How to sell
- Make sure items are clearly priced.
- Be sure to get at least $50 in change the night before the sale.
- Avoid pricing anything for less than a quarter. It will make money handling easier.
- Sell only junk you can get money for.
- Have a yard sale with friends instead of alone.
- Don't choose a start time that is too early or an ending time that is too late.
- One day only. You don't need a two-day sale, especially when the best items have already been sold.
- Advertise, advertise, advertise.
- If you say "no early-bird sales," try to abide by your word.
- Put out clearly marked signs to guide people to your sale.
- Donate whatever is left over to charity.
