Garage sales should be fun and hassle-free, with the goal of making good money and getting rid of unwanted items – our garage sale checklist is your hassle-free, step-by-step planner to get there.

2-3 weeks before sale

-Start sorting your home for unwanted items

have the mindset that almost anything will sell if it’s a bargain

– Price your items

value items 25-35% of new (clothing is an exception: 5-15% here)

– Choose a date and time for your sale

weekends are the best; avoid holidays or special events

– Write your ad

give the address and time of the sale; mention items that are of particular interest

– Place your ad in local newspapers and use free garage sale advertising sites

post flyers at local community meetings; inform the neighbors as they might want to have a joint sale

1 week before sale

– Make sure items are cleaned and repaired

the better condition it is, the higher price you will get

– Determine where the signs will go.

in and around your neighborhood is the best; one in front of your house is smart too

– Make your posters

use arrows, write direction, start and end times, use big letters (free printable signs)

1-2 days before sale

– Configure your sales area

use tables to place items, display hanging clothes; you want to create an area for people to comfortably browse and shop

– Prepare the checkout area

have a lot of change; replacement bags; calculator; newspaper (for wrapping fragile items); paper and pens

night before sale

– put up signs

– Pack some snacks and have a radio ready to play soft music in the background

music will create a nice atmosphere for shoppers to buy (always works for me!)

morning sale

– Make sure your house is locked and completely secure

I don’t want to give buyers the opportunity to snoop

– Open the doors/doors of your sale

greet all customers with a friendly smile and “hello!”; be prepared to negotiate with buyers

right after sale

– Remove signs

not only is this kind to the environment, but you could incur a fine or penalty if you don’t

– Count your money and join!