Are you looking to make money by selling items at garage sales? Garage sales can be a lucrative business if you know what garage sale items are the best sellers, how to source inventory, attract customers, and maximize profits.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of identifying the most in-demand items, getting inventory at a reasonable price, attracting customers, and expanding your market so that you can see the potential of making quick cash or possibly making a side business out of this.
What You Need to Know About Garage Sales
Garage sales shoppers are a different kind of shopper. Prospective buyers are looking for great deals and tend to be savvy shoppers. They are often looking for big-ticket items that are in excellent condition that they can get at a fraction of the price.
Garage Sale Best Sellers
The items that sell best at garage sales are furniture, appliances, bicycles, toys, sports equipment, clothing, books, tools, and jewelry are all popular items that sell well at garage sales. Electronics such as cell phones and computers may also attract buyers. The key to making money from these items is to make sure they are in good condition and that you price them lower than they can buy them at a store or online.
Identifying In-Demand Items
To have a successful garage sale, it’s essential to focus on selling items that are in high demand and attract customers.
Here are some of the things to look for when you’re trying to find your garage sale best sellers:
- Popular Categories: Some of the best things that sell at yard sales are clothing, electronics, furniture, collectibles, vintage items, baby items, household items and more.
- Condition: Look for items that are in good condition or can easily be fixed or cleaned to look new. Customers are more likely to buy items that are clean, functional, and visually appealing. If you can spend a couple extra minutes cleaning your items it will pay off because people will automatically give it a higher value.
- Brand Names: Brand-name items often attract buyers who are specifically looking for quality products. Keep an eye out for well-known brands in the various product categories listed above.
- Trends: Stay updated on current trends and popular items. This could include items related to hobbies, home decor, fashion, or technology. Researching online marketplaces to see what’s been recently selling and just looking on social media (or asking your kids) can help you identify trending items.
- Seasonal Items: Consider the time of year and focus on selling seasonal items such as holiday decorations, gardening tools, sports equipment, or summer gear during the appropriate seasons.
Some popular items that bring in extra cash include:
- Power tools- Power tools can be expensive, so garage sale buyers are often willing to pay a good price for them.
- Children’s clothing- Children outgrow clothes quickly, so shoppers may be on the hunt for gently used clothes (especially baby clothes) in excellent condition.
- Antiques and collectibles – Collectors are always looking for rare items that they can add to their collections.
- Video games- Video games can be a lucrative item to sell, especially if they’re rare or in high demand and in the original packaging.
- Jewelry- Whether costume jewelry or luxury jewelry, buyers are often looking for good quality pieces at a great price.
- Outdoor furniture- Many people are looking for outdoor furniture that is in good condition and a fraction of the cost.
- Small appliances- Small appliances such as coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves are a popular item at garage sales.
- Full sets of china- China sets are often expensive, so buyers may be willing to pay more for a complete set.
Once you have identified the best items to sell at garage sales, it’s time to find inventory (declutter your house!) and attract customers.
Garage Sale Tips to Maximizing Profits
To maximize your profits at garage sales, consider implementing the following tactics:
Best Time & Best Day
The day you schedule your garage sale and even the time of the day is important. Saturday morning and Sundays are usually the best days for garage sales, but make sure to check with local regulations before scheduling your sale. Early morning hours tend to be the most successful time slots as buyers are looking for bargains before they begin their weekend activities.
Advertising & Visibility
Marketing and advertising your garage sale should be done at least a week in advance. Make sure to post signs and ads in your local newspaper as well as on popular online websites like Craigslist. Additionally, use social media to reach new potential buyers by creating an event page that can be shared with friends and family.
Offer Deals & Discounts
When pricing items for sale, make sure to offer competitive prices that attract buyers. Offering deals or discounts for bulk items can encourage shoppers to purchase more than one item. Who doesn’t love a good BOGO (Buy One Get One) Sale? Tell customers if they can get a great deal for one low price! (We always did this with kids clothing… buy 1 piece for $1 or get 2 pieces for $1! It was always a fun way to entice people to buy more.
Additionally, you may consider offering a “first come first served” discount that offers the first few customers an extra incentive.
Pricing Strategy
Price your items competitively by researching similar items online or visiting other garage sales in your area (first-hand research is the best!). Consider offering bundle deals or discounts for multiple purchases.
Visual Merchandising
Display your items attractively to catch the attention of customers. Organize them by category and use tables, shelves, and racks to create an inviting shopping experience.
Negotiation Skills
Be prepared for customers to negotiate the prices of your items, especially with early birds. Set your initial prices higher to allow room for negotiation while still ensuring a profit. A fair price means both the buyer and seller feel good about their experience.
Upselling and Cross-Selling
Encourage customers to purchase additional items by strategically placing complementary products near each other. For example, if you’re selling kitchen appliances, display utensils and cookware nearby or on the same table.
Payment Options
Offer multiple payment options such as cash, card, or mobile payment apps like CashApp, Zelle, or Venmo to accommodate different customer preferences. Years ago I gave up using change. I price everything $1 or more and if something should be priced around 50¢ I sell it “Two for a dollar” so that I don’t have to take the time to work with coins.
These are just a few tips for making money through garage sales, but with dedication and research, you can even turn this into a successful business that brings in a steady flow of income.
Attracting More Customers and Expanding Your Market
To attract more customers and expand your market beyond traditional garage sales, consider the following strategies:
- Social Media: Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok to showcase your products, share stories, and engage with potential customers.
- Promotions and Discounts: Offer special promotions, discounts, or exclusive deals to entice customers to visit your garage sale. This can be done through social media posts, email newsletters, or even the local newspaper. Mention code SUMMERSALE and we’ll give you $5 off a $35 purchase!
- Word of Mouth Advertising: Encourage satisfied customers to spread the word about your garage sale or online store. Offer referral discounts or incentives for customers who refer their friends or family. Tell your friends to come back and we’ll give them $5 off when they spend $35!
- Collaborations: Partner with neighbors or organize collaborative events to attract more customers. This could include setting up a Weekend Market at a central location like your church parking lot.
- Yard Sale Signs: Don’t discount the use of a few large signs around your area and neighborhood to grab the attention of potential shoppers. Community yard sales are a big draw over a thrift store that may not have any great finds left.
Garage sales are a great way to make extra money and get rid of unwanted items in your home. Successfully running a garage sale requires research, planning, and strategic marketing tactics.
Consider the tips outlined in this guide to identify in-demand items, acquire inventory at reasonable prices, maximize profits, and attract more customers. With the right approach, you could even build a successful garage sale business that generates income in the short-term and long-term.
