Spring is coming, we promise. As soon the snow melts people will be showcasing their unneeded wares outside on the lawn. Have you ever put one on yourself? Many of us grew up with a wise aunt who would browse and occasionally host garage sales. If you can’t learn everything you need to know from her, take a minute to read up on the tips below.

Take Inventory

Don’t be in a hurry! It’s tempting to throw all of your “merchandise” into boxes and start selling away, but you’ll be in for some headaches. Sit down and make a list of the items you have and then estimate the prices they’ll fetch. A list of items with their prices will come in handy when browsers employ sneaky tactics (see below).  Big ticket items especially need to be accounted for—you can skip out on detailing every tape from your Bon Jovi collection, just lump them together. This inventory will also give you an idea of how much revenue your garage sale should bring in, making your decision to go through with it that much easier.

Label and Price

Those who attend garage sales have a habit of discreetly tossing your prices tags and suggesting a 70% markdown. You can avoid this issue with a proper inventory and some sticky price tags.

Bright colored, adhesive labels are perfect for garage sales. If you’re feeling ambitious, you may even color-code according to the type of item or sales price. Many retailers sell sticker guns that are perfect for this application. Note: pricing items at increments of $0.25 or higher will make transactions easier to complete.

Advertise

Your sale will flame out quickly if no one comes. Make an effort to get the word out to every possible media outlet in your area. Information here is key—be sure people know the times, dates, and location of your sale.

• Local papers will offer advertising sections solely devoted to garage sales, a two or three-day ad before the sale should suffice.
• Your social media accounts are perfect for getting information to a large group of friends quickly. Facebook is great for sharing pictures and info about your big ticket items. Encourage a couple of close friends to share your status to reach an even bigger pool.
• Craigslist is another online option. The site is a free place to post detailed information about your sale. By listing your address, Craigslist will automatically
• Bulletin boards, telephone poles and designated corners are perfect for posting homemade flyers. Commission any artists in the family to draw up vibrant, eye-catching signs.
• Tell people! You’d be surprised by how many people will here by word-of-mouth.

Clean up the Garage

It’s akin to having company over for lunch. In order for your sale to appear inviting the premises should be clean and tidy. Browsers at garage sales are looking at things you’ve owned and maintained. Break out the brooms, clear out cobwebs and make sure things are in order. If your grass has started growing, make sure to cut and trim it—nothing turns a passerby off like an unruly yard.

Get Change

A common issue at garage sales is a lack of change. People will bring large bills and buy $0.75 items. Go to the bank a day or two before and pick up rolls of quarters along with small bills. If you have some type of money box available, it’ll be easy to organize.

If you’re setting up for a garage sale this year be sure your garage door is in proper working order. Contact our team at Precision Door Detroit today for world-class installation and maintenance services.