There are many ways to advertise an item for sale locally. One obvious place is the classifieds of your local daily newspaper. Check into different rates for the different papers in your area. The larger metropolitan newspapers will most likely charge more than your town's weekly paper but the circulation of a major paper will be much greater.

There are usually other local classifieds publications as well, such as bargain shopper papers, auto and real estate guides and others that either charge very little or sometimes nothing at all. Check out the newspaper rack at a local convenience store or market to get an idea of all the classifieds options that are available in your area.

Newspapers aren't the only place you can get cheap local advertising. Many grocery stores have message boards near the checkout where you can fill out a form and list your item for free. Look around during your daily activities for places you can publicize your item for sale. Church bulletins, work newsletters and pin up boards at the library are just a few. Also try to think of who might want to buy your item. If you're selling an old couch that's been in the basement for a few years try hanging up a flyer on your local college campus. Targeting your potential buyers can pay off in a big way.

Some local cable television systems offer classified advertising on a specific channel. This type of classified ad is usually more expensive than a newspaper ad, but if you're selling a high dollar item like a car or boat and want as much exposure as you can get, cable classifieds can be worth the money.

When you are advertising a specific item for sale don't forget about using one of the oldest methods available, word of mouth! Tell everyone you know about what you are selling, friends, neighbors, co-workers, the guy who cuts your parents' lawn, anyone. Try sending out an email to everyone you know. You never know who might be interested in buying your item, or whom the person you tell might tell.

Try offering your friends a commission or percentage of the sale if they find a buyer for you. That way you can have your own army of salespeople keeping their eyes open for you.