Issue link: https://www.cominghomemag.com/i/1544982
PINCH OF GOODNESS Check your rules. Some municipalities require you to obtain a city permit, and some community associations have rules restricting when and where sales can be held. Review any relevant policies and make sure to comply. Determine the details. Set a date, time, and location at least one month in advance so you can prepare. Tip: garage sales held on Saturday or Sunday mornings get the most traffic. Then, get the necessary approvals. Lastly, advertise your garage sale by posting flyers, sharing on social media, and announcing on a community website, bulletin board, or at a meeting. This summer, you and your neighbors can turn clutter into cash. Hosting a neighborhood garage sale is easy—rally your group, organize your merchandise, source display equipment, and promote, promote, promote. Before you know it, your block can transform into a lively marketplace full of surprises, stories, and second chances for forgotten finds. Provide payment options. Today, digital payments are the currency of choice. Set up accounts on apps like Zelle, Venmo, Apple Pay, and Cash App. Still, have cash and change on hand in case people want to settle up the old-school way. Be helpful. To maximize profits, treat your sale like an actual business. Display attractive items and stay organized so visitors don't have to sift through piles. Take appliances out of boxes, put clothes on portable racks, and stack books, CDs, and movies. Don't forget to smile and let customers know you're available to help. GARAGE SALE SUCCESS Know what to sell. Be smart about what you sell. Gently used clothing, home décor, antiques, tools, lawn equipment, books, toys, jewelry, sporting goods, and electronics are typically in high demand. Avoid selling hazardous materials and personalized, broken, worn-out, or dirty items. Consider making a "free" box for low-value things. Price strategically. Items in excellent condition should go for about 50% of the original price. Price fairly worn or used goods at no more than 30% of the original cost. Anything worse should be 10% or less of the original value. Make bundles, use stickers to clearly label prices, and price items in convenient payment increments ($1, $5, $10, etc.). Tips for hosting a neighborhood garage sale. 26 COMING HOME MAGAZINE