Goals: 

• Recycle your “stuff” and allow others to give it new life. One person’s junk is another person’s treasure!


• Use the money for a family treat or buy an item the whole family can use such as a camera, DVD player, recreational equipment, or a family outing.  

Yard Sale Basics:

• Set up in your driveway, garage or on the lawn. Look for large flea markets in your area that allow families to set up their own tables.


• Take the time to clean your dusty/dirty items so they look desirable again.


• Use pre-priced tags available at stores. Price ALL items low, but fair and do this ahead of time (if in new condition, price at ¼ to 1/3 of what it would sell for new); price all large items; group small items on tables with one set price for all; reduce prices at noon.


• Use tables to display items (not the ground); set up by price/type of item.


• Clothing looks great and sells best on racks and grouped by categories.


• Sell food such as coffee, doughnuts, lemonade or cans of soda. During a multi-family yard sale, food brings people to your table.

Yard Sale Advertising:

• Post large, bright, waterproof signs at least four days ahead of time. List date and arrow pointing the direction.  


• Send an advertisement to your local newspaper (Reading Eagle, 610-376-1527) and the Merchandiser at 610-670-2595.


• Start as early as possible for early birds. Early shoppers are more serious and willing to spend money.


• Encourage your neighbors to have a multifamily yard sale, especially in a development. Split the cost of the ad.


• List your location first. This is how many shoppers plan their day.


• Start as early as possible (early birds can come at 6:30!) and end at 1-2 p.m. One day is best.


• List attention grabbing items: unusual antiques, big items, use “bargain”.


• Provide directions if necessary.

Get the kids involved!

• Engage your children by having them selling their own items or staff the food table.


• It’s a fun learning experience and you can allow them to use the money for their own spending or donate the money to their favorite charity.

For more tips on yard sales, go to www.yardsalequeen.com.                

Vali G. Heist