1. Estimate the items you’d like to sell.
Take an inventory of all the items you plan to sell by making a list and including descriptions of each item.
2. Gather supplies.
Gather supplies such as price tags, markers, tape, scissors, bags, and any other items you may need to properly display and sell your items.
3. Price items accordingly.
Price items according to their condition, age, and popularity. Consider asking for donations for some items if you are a charitable organization hosting the sale.
4. Create a yard sale sign and post it near your home at least one week prior to the sale.
Be sure to include the date, time, and address of your sale.
5. Advertise in local newspapers/online classifieds/social media outlets.
Advertise your sale in advance so that potential customers have time to plan their visit.
6. Sort your items into different sections or categories for easy browsing.
Group similar items together and organize them by size or color to make it easier for customers to find what they are looking for.
7. Set up tables and displays for each item group on the day of the sale.
Arrange items so they are easy to see and accessible.
8. Place price tags on all items that are for sale.
Be sure to include the price and a brief description of each item.
9. Monitor prices throughout the course of the day and make changes as needed to ensure.
Be flexible with prices and be willing to negotiate or drop them as needed.
10. Prepare extra cash ahead of time so you have enough change when customers pay with larger bills.
Have a variety of coins and small bills ready to make a change.
11. Have a plan in place should any disputes arise during checkout.
Make sure you have a clear policy regarding refunds and exchanges.
12. Have your chosen payment method ready before customers arrive.
Decide if you will accept cash, checks, or credit cards, and display your payment options clearly.
13. Clean up after the sale is over.
Gather up unsold items, dispose of all trash, and clean up the area to prepare for the next sale.