Yard sales are a great way to recycle your "stuff" and allow others to give it new life. Remember: one person's junk is another person's treasure! Here are some tips to maximize the impact of your yard/garage/moving sale!

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 multifamily 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.

• 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.

After it's over: Box up the remaining items, make a list of the items, estimate the market value, and take directly to a nonprofit agency. Use the receipt for your taxes. Don’t put your items back in the house!