Yard sale success tips; merchandising and friends

Here is more on how a successful yard sale is a small business. Don't let the wording put you off. We've included it to help you realize how much the sale really is a business - even if it is just for one day or a weekend.  It is one blog post in a series. Click here for the first article.  

Product - Stuff

To go into a business you must have a product and that includes things to see in your yard sale. Usually, you are selling used items from your home. It is a yard sale myth that people 'love' to dig through boxes for individual items. When is the last time that you did that at a successful yard sale? I didn't think so. Make sure your items are clean enough to sell and well organized. Wash all clothing before selling.

Sometimes you may not have enough items to have a successful yard sale. Don't be intimidated. Ask friends or family for help. They may be able to let you clean out their garage and give unused 

Recruit help – Kids, Family, Friends

Companies have team members to help with their successful business and so should you. Recruit dependable people who will help you set-up tables, sell yard sale items and take things down afterward. You may have to pay the neighbor's kids from down the street to come help. That $5-$10 is worth it. Plus, they may want to carry some of your leftover product for their yard sale. 

Merchandising – Displaying your stuff

This means that you are displaying your products attractively. A successful yard sale will have everything placed neatly together. Arranging items on the table with the shorter items in the front makes everything easier to see. Grouping items of the same price or similar pieces together makes it easier for customers to find more to buy. 

Cashier

Who will your customers pay and where will they do it? It can be helpful to have a designated table for money-taking. The table should have a cash box or the cashier can wear an apron and be well marked. Just like a the grocery store the cashier can take the money and bag the items. Make sure you have a supply of bags on hand. (next...)