Thinking of turning your clutter into extra cash? Here's a primer on holding a garage sale.
Check out applicable bylaws and regulations. Some residents are only allowed to hold two garage sales a year on their property. If you're planning a two-day weekend sale, that's it for the year. Condo rules and apartment leases may restrict or prohibit sales.
Get everyone involved. Multi-generation and neighbourhood sales are fun -- and profitable since they tend to draw larger crowds.
Get the word out. Use paid and free advertising --the Internet, bulletin boards at coffee shops or supermarkets and street signs. Emphasize big-ticket items. Mention tools and men will come running.
Be prepared. Spend a few evenings cleaning and pricing items. Stock up on sawhorses, plywood, shelving, tables, hangers and bags. Your first customers will arrive straight from the ATM which only dispenses $20 bills. Have a supply of change handy.
Safety first. Sports equipment and children's gear are popular, but must have a Canadian Standards Association (CSA) label. Canada Safety Council does not recommend buying or selling used car seats. See safety-council.org/info/child/garage.html for details.
Price it right. Ask yourself what you'd be prepared to pay. Fine art and heirlooms aside (these shouldn't be sold at garage sales anyway), items typically sell for 10 to 20 per cent of their asking price. New or hardly used, still in the original containers with price tags attached, they may garner more. Check classifieds to find out what big items are selling for and offer smaller items for one bargain price. Start a "free" box for miscellaneous stuff.
Expect shoppers to haggle. Dickering at day's end when you're tired and fretting about what to do with the leftover stuff is easier than bargaining with crack-of-dawners. Worried you won't get a better price? Tell the buyer you'll accept his/her low-ball offer if the item is still unsold at say, noon.
Display like with like. Group related articles -- tools, kitchenware, clothes -- together. Cordon off items not for sale.
-- Canwest News Service
