I have listed some important things you will need to get started on your garage sale expedition!
1. Enthusiasm:
You must be ready and willing to conquer those sales early in the morning! Be up at 6AM and out to your sales by 7AM, the early bird gets the worm! In Saint Louis, sales are popularly held on Wednesdays and Saturdays. In and around O’Fallon MO, they hold Friday night pre-sales, you can hit these on your way home from work!
2. Cash
Most importantly you must have CASH and some spare change. Bring small denominations, many people will have change, but that doesn’t mean that they will have it for you. I usually bring about $40-$50 and that will hold me over, unless I am looking for a large ticket item.
3. Gas, Food, Drink and a Potty…
Yes, I said potty. If you are toting little ones around, you must bring that portable potty seat so they can go in the car. Theres nothing like being at a great sale and baby girl says “momma, I have to go potty!” It takes too much time to run out to McDonald’s. Plenty of gas will greet you around and make sure you pack snacks and beverages.
4. A “semi” clean car
You will need plenty of room for your purchases! So don’t forget to clean out all of that extra junk that is lingering in your car.
5. Competitive edge
You hate to do it, but be ready to be assertive to get what you want and if you see it, pick it up, or someone else will! Take note of other buyers negotiating prices, because if they succumb to others chances are they will bend for you too. I usually try to get 20% off of items $10 or over and ask for $1 off lower items.
6. The MAP and ADS
Don’t forget to bring that map that you charted while looking at the sale ads last night…you remembered to do that right? Cutting down on driving time and distance will get you more goodies and save money on gas. If you have a smart phone you can add the Craigslist Pro App for free to look up ads on the go. You should also add the EBAY selling APP if you are into antiques and re-selling items, you can use it before you buy anything.
7. A good attitude
Remember to smile and have fun! Talk to people and be friendly, they will be more willing to negotiate with people that they would rather see their items go with. Never tell them if you plan to re-sell items or what an item is worth on Ebay. Most people like to think that their sale items will be re-used and appreciated by the purchaser. I always tell them where I intend to use something “oh, I have the perfect spot for this on my mantle” and I think that allows them to better envision the new home and lessens their emotional ties to their stuff. Yes, women are emotionally tied to things, most of it, they really don’t want to sell. Sales held by men, on the other hand, are usually great, because they just want to get rid of junk! Be leery though, they drive a harder bargain when it comes to more expensive items.
In a nut shell, I have listed some things that are necessary to get you started! It will enable you to enjoy success when scouting for things you want! Ok, now go get ‘em!
