Give yourself time to prepare
| Select a sale date well in advance, at least two to three weeks. |
| Weekends are best, but avoid dates that conflict with holidays or special
events. |
| Consider holding a joint sale with friends, neighbors or relatives to attract more customers and sell more items. |
Price your items right
| Visit other garage sales to get a feel for prices, and be realistic when
pricing your items. |
| Purchase self-adhesive tags at an office supply store and affix a tag to
each item. |
| For joint sales, keep a log of items sold or mark price tags with seller's
initials |
| Be prepared to come down in price if you really want to get rid of an item |
Advertise for success
| For best results, don't skimp on advertising. Write about your best items
to attract the most buyers. |
| Advertise "cash only" if that's your preference, then post a "cash only"
sign at the sale. |
| Advertise in shopper newspapers. Post notices on bulletin boards in
grocery stores or laundromats. |
| Investigate free public service announcements on radio and television. |
| Post signs in visible places the day of your sale to guide customers to
your sale. (Check local ordinances regarding sign postings first). |
| Ask your GMAC Real Estate sales professional about the availability of attractive, functional garage sale signs. |
Success on sale day
| Have plenty of change available -- $1 and $5 bills and at least $5 in
change should cover everything. |
| Ask your neighbors in advance not to park in front of your house on sale
day. Keep your own driveway clear for extra parking. |
| Ask a friend or relative to help you take money, wait on customers or give you a break |