Yard sales, garage sales, tag sales, whatever you call them they can generate a lot of money if done right. Some people make thousands of dollars by having yard sales, the key is to prepare, advertise and be ready to sell!

Most people think that having a yard sale is just setting up a few tables, putting an ad in the paper and watching your stuff sell. Those are the same people who barely make any money! To make a yard sale truly successful, it takes a little more work and elbow grease.

Before you begin planning your yard sale, make sure that you've met your community's guidelines. Some require licenses, others don't.

Start gathering up items from around your house a few months before you plan on having the sale. This gives you time to round up everything you want to sell without being hurried. It also gives you some time to change your mind about selling certain items that you might want. Set everything aside from your other belongings and make sure everything is nice and clean, you'll make more money when your items look their best. Who wants to pay 5 bucks for an old lamp that's covered in 10 years worth of dust?

After everything you want to sell is gathered up, it's time to price everything. Don't overvalue your stuff just because some of it might have sentimental value. You may have gotten that ashtray on your honeymoon but 10 bucks is a little steep, especially if you "borrowed" it from the hotel! It's best to have each item clearly marked to avoid having to answer how much an item is every time you turn around. Some items might be better to price in a bin. For example, putting up a sign that says "Everything in this box $1 each" Creative pricing works good as well, like four toys for a dollar or a bag of clothing for 3 dollars. By keeping things clear your buyers will have an easier time shopping and you'll have a better day selling.

Be creative in presenting your merchandise. Laying everything out on the ground doesn't look good and it makes it harder for people to see the items. Make sure you group your items together on tables or hang clothing on racks. If you don't have enough tables ask a neighbor if you can borrow one, if you need a clothing rack try putting a shower rod across two ladders. If you sell a lot of items from one table, fill in the gaps with items from another. Presentation can really go a long way.

Now that you know how to set up the perfect yard sale, you need to spread the word! Placing an ad in the newspaper will get the yard salers to your door. When writing your ad, try to be as brief as possible yet clear. It's best to list the types of items you have for sale then your address, date and time. Advertising in the newspaper the week of your sale is generally sufficient time to get the word out. Also try using an online classified ad service

Putting up signs is a great way to draw attention to your yard sale, as long as people can read them! Make sure they are made of a strong material to withstand the elements, cardboard pizza boxes work well. Write with a waterproof ink or paint and make sure the printing is large and easy to read. Arrows pointing in the direction of your sale make it easier for people not from your neighborhood to find it. After the signs are up drive by them yourself to make sure you can read them. If you can't, then no one will!

If you are going to place signs around your community make sure you are following local laws. Some communities do not allow stapling or attaching signs to lampposts or street signs, it's best to check with your local authorities. Most importantly, if you do put up signs, make sure you take them down after your sale has ended!

Yard Sale Tips:

  • Place interesting items closer to the road to attract people driving by
  • Offer to sell drinks to your customers. On hot days they'll appreciate it and stick around at your sale longer buying more stuff!
  • Have plenty of cash on hand to make change and keep it well guarded
  • Have lots of plastic bags around to pack up items you sell and newspapers to wrap any breakable items.
  • If you are selling anything electronic, run an extension chord out into your yard so people can test the items without having to go inside your home.
  • Invite neighbors or friends over to have a larger sale.
  • Check online for more yard sale tips