5 Tips For A Successful Garage Sale In Sacramento

Spring has arrived in Sacramento and that means it is yard sale time once again. If you have finished your spring cleaning and have gathered up all the clutter that needs to go, why not have a yard sale? It is a great way to clear out unwanted items and make a little extra money. The key to a successful yard sale is planning and organization.

1. Round up the inventory. Thoroughly scour the house, cleaning out closets, toy boxes and the basement. If you haven't used it, worn it, or read it in at least six months, it's time to sell it. Make sure all items to be sold are clean. Wipe down toys, wash clothes and clean dishes. Don't try to sell something you wouldn't consider buying yourself at a yard sale.

2. Price to sell. Be realistic. Give buyers a bargain, but don't give items away. Most items will be priced in the $1 to $5 range, with books, toys and dishes for a few quarters each. It's better to price low and have people buy than to have 10 people pick up and put down an item because it is priced too high. If you think something might have some value, don't guess. Search for a similar item online or take it to a consignment store to be appraised. 

3. Have a plan. Start planning one to two weeks in advance. Decide how many days your sale will run. Many sales run Saturday and Sunday. Organize your items and make sure you have enough tables or shelves to display everything. Use labels to put prices on all the items. Don't forget to have cash and change on hand.

4. Team up. Gathering friends and family not only increases inventory, but it also means there are more people to help. One person can manage the cash box, while another keeps track of inventory. Get kids involved by having them sell cookies and lemonade. Having a group sale also means you can tap into the best location. If your house is in a quiet neighborhood, team up with a friend who lives in a high-traffic area.

5. Advertise. Take the time to make several large, clear signs and post them in conspicuous places near your home. While the local newspaper is a good place to advertise your sale, Craigslist is better because it is free and more widely read. Clearly state the times of your sale and list some of the items for sale.

These local businesses and organizations can help you get started:

Emigh Hardware
3555 El Camino Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95821
(916) 482-1900
www.emigh.com

Hours: Mon to Fri - 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sat - 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sun - 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Emigh Hardware has all the supplies you need to display your stock, including bins, boxes and small shelves.

Corti Brothers
5810 Folsom Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95819
(916) 736-3800

Hours: Mon to Sat - 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sun - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pick up coffee, lemonade or sweet treats to satisfy your customers at Corti Brothers.

Minuteman Press
930 Alhambra Blvd., Ste. 80
Sacramento, CA 95816
(916) 266-9112
www.minutemanpress.com

Hours: Mon to Fri - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat - by appointment, Sun - closed

Minuteman Press is a full service printing company, offering great deals and discounts on any size order. Pick up your flyers here.

Deseret Industries Thrift Store
3000 Auburn Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95821

Hours: Mon - 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tue to Fri - 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Research the value of your items or drop off anything you weren't able to sell at Deseret Industries Thrift Store.

Related: Everything Is New Again at the Sacramento Antique Fair
Related: Best Consignment Shops In The Sacramento Area

For more great tricks, tips and advice about your home, visit CBSSacramento/YourHome.

Karen Boruff is a freelance writer living in Sacramento. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.