When you hold a garage sale, you have certain expectations. You expect to sell items, you expect to make money, you expect your hard work will be rewarded, and that people who stop at your sale will make a purchase. Unfortunately, not all stories have a happy ending. The same is true with garage sales. Bad garage sales happen.
Yesterday I held a sale on my front lawn with high expectations. The weather was decent, I put out lots of stuff to sell, traffic was good on my street, I placed several floor model radios on the curb to slow down traffic and attract shoppers, and for the first time I hired a person to help me set up and take down the sale. My thinking was that my sales would more than make up for this expense. Oh, how wrong I was! It turned out to be one of my worst Saturday sales.
It started out promising. I had all my rummage and all my tables stored in the garage, so I loaded up my station wagon with tables, drove them to the front, then set them up. Next, I drove back to the garage, loaded up my rummage, then returned to the front yard. It was a quick and easy start. I was soon ready for customers.
Sales were slow in the morning, but that did not worry me. I assumed things would pick up. They never did.
The majority of people who stopped were lookers, not buyers. Although traffic was heavy on my street, only a small percentage of cars stopped. My floor radios did stop traffic occasionally, but no radios were sold. No "big ticket" items sold. I had a couple of ten dollar sales. At the end of the day, I had sold $42 in rummage. And then I had to haul all the tables and unsold rummage back indoors. The phrase "adding insult to injury" comes to mind.
So what went wrong? First, I ignored what I already knew -- that late July and all of August are the worst times to hold a sale. People are not in the mood. I should have waited until September. And I learned heavy traffic does not translate into customers. That's only when cars stop in front of your house and people get out. My other downfall was having too many "vintage" items and not enough "practical" stuff. My furniture sold well, including a nice step-ladder. Glassware sold. Placemats sold. People were looking for bargains in household items they needed. They were looking to buy used, rather than new, but only if they had a use and a place for it.
This autopsy of my garage sale I take as a lesson in my continuing education. I will learn from the experience and do better next time. That's about all you can do when your garage sale goes bad.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Selling at a Flea Market
This past Sunday, I got up at 4:30 am to sell at the Medina flea market in Hamel, which runs every Sunday from 6 am to noon. This was my first time this year as a seller, usually I prefer to go there and buy. The flea market was at capacity because of the great weather. I think there were about 250 vendors.
My sales were decent. I had 3 sales of $20 or more, and most others were from one to five dollars. It cost $20 to set up. With so much to see, customers usually give you a one-minute walk by, unless something catches their eye. That's why I try to have a variety of rummage, including a box of 25-cent toys for kids. You have to have wide appeal. Many people did stop or slow-down to look at the 30+ framed vintage photos I had on display. Sold an 8 by 10 photo from the 30's of a guy in a casket along with some military photos. Will try selling there again later this year.
My sales were decent. I had 3 sales of $20 or more, and most others were from one to five dollars. It cost $20 to set up. With so much to see, customers usually give you a one-minute walk by, unless something catches their eye. That's why I try to have a variety of rummage, including a box of 25-cent toys for kids. You have to have wide appeal. Many people did stop or slow-down to look at the 30+ framed vintage photos I had on display. Sold an 8 by 10 photo from the 30's of a guy in a casket along with some military photos. Will try selling there again later this year.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Try Some Marketing
Earlier this garage sale season, I purchased an analog television set with a built-in dvd player. The couple I bought it from had it on the floor of their dark garage, no price, and you had to look hard to tell it played dvd's. They were asking $10 for it. I offered $8 and also purchased season 1 of Golden Girls on dvd for $2, so they got their $10. Took it home, set it up in my bedroom; it worked fine.
As I already had a dvd player connected to my other tv set, I decided to sell this one at my first lawn sale. But I also decided I was going to make some money off of it. Here is what I did:
I created a descriptive marketing sign for the tv screen. It read: 22" Screen DVD Player; Works Great; Easy to use: turn on power, insert dvd, press: play; comes with remote; perfect for bedroom, kitchen, office, family room; easy for kids to use. $35
When I had my lawn sale, I placed it on a table so it was easy to see, and I placed the sales sheet on the screen. The first people who stopped at the sale bought it. They offered $25, I countered with $30. SOLD.
Marketing makes a difference. If you really want to sell an item, display it properly, post the facts & benefits, tell how they might use it, and price it right. This is a key to garage sale success and profits.
As I already had a dvd player connected to my other tv set, I decided to sell this one at my first lawn sale. But I also decided I was going to make some money off of it. Here is what I did:
I created a descriptive marketing sign for the tv screen. It read: 22" Screen DVD Player; Works Great; Easy to use: turn on power, insert dvd, press: play; comes with remote; perfect for bedroom, kitchen, office, family room; easy for kids to use. $35
When I had my lawn sale, I placed it on a table so it was easy to see, and I placed the sales sheet on the screen. The first people who stopped at the sale bought it. They offered $25, I countered with $30. SOLD.
Marketing makes a difference. If you really want to sell an item, display it properly, post the facts & benefits, tell how they might use it, and price it right. This is a key to garage sale success and profits.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
My First Lawn Sale
My first lawn sale of the year was Saturday, July 3 and had a patriotic theme. My lawn signs read: "Buy American Rummage" and "Celebrate Your Freedom to Buy Rummage." Sales were decent; not the best ever (or the worst). Often, a holiday weekend is not the best time to have a sale, but this one worked out ok. As usual, I had a wide variety of merchandise. Sold lots of stuff that was just sitting in my garage and basement, including an old 80s stereo system. Love turning clutter into cash!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Lamp Lights Up My Life
About a month or so ago I purchased an old table lamp at a lawn sale a few blocks from my house. The lamp has a dark brown heavy metal ornate base, a large globe top with etchings, and about 25 crystals hang from the globe. Mint condition. The only way you could tell it was old was from the electric cord.
It was a front yard / back yard sale, and this lamp was "lost" in the back yard sitting on top of a tall filing cabinet. I doubt many people had seen it. Worst place ever to display it. I took it down and looked it over. Very clean. It had 2 small price stickers on it. One read 4--- and the other had 2---, so it appeared they were asking two dollars.
I talked to a woman running the sale about it. She said that she did not own it. She was selling it for a friend. And she said it came from an antique shop. I bought it for two dollars, placed it on a table at home, and kind of forgot about it, until David, my antique dealer friend arrived to look at my recent purchases.
For starters, David said each of the 25 crystals were worth $3 each, and he said the lamp, which was likely made in the 1920s, was quite valuable, at least two hundred dollars. An excellent find. I am hanging on to it while David tries to come up with more info on it.
Here's what I think happened: I believe the lamp was actually priced to sell at $200, but both the seller and I thought the sticker meant $2. My guess is the original price was $400. Think about it: Who would sell an old lamp in mint condition for just $2? The dealer certainly would have known the crystals alone were worth much more than that. And who marks a lamp down in price from $4 to $2? Reducing it in price from $400 to $200 is much more likely. I think the owner simply failed to tell the woman running the sale that the price was $200.
So I have a genuine bargain on my hands. It proves you can buy an item worth several hundred dollars for just a few bucks at a garage sale. Doesn't happen often, but it does happen. That's what keeps people going to garage sales.
It was a front yard / back yard sale, and this lamp was "lost" in the back yard sitting on top of a tall filing cabinet. I doubt many people had seen it. Worst place ever to display it. I took it down and looked it over. Very clean. It had 2 small price stickers on it. One read 4--- and the other had 2---, so it appeared they were asking two dollars.
I talked to a woman running the sale about it. She said that she did not own it. She was selling it for a friend. And she said it came from an antique shop. I bought it for two dollars, placed it on a table at home, and kind of forgot about it, until David, my antique dealer friend arrived to look at my recent purchases.
For starters, David said each of the 25 crystals were worth $3 each, and he said the lamp, which was likely made in the 1920s, was quite valuable, at least two hundred dollars. An excellent find. I am hanging on to it while David tries to come up with more info on it.
Here's what I think happened: I believe the lamp was actually priced to sell at $200, but both the seller and I thought the sticker meant $2. My guess is the original price was $400. Think about it: Who would sell an old lamp in mint condition for just $2? The dealer certainly would have known the crystals alone were worth much more than that. And who marks a lamp down in price from $4 to $2? Reducing it in price from $400 to $200 is much more likely. I think the owner simply failed to tell the woman running the sale that the price was $200.
So I have a genuine bargain on my hands. It proves you can buy an item worth several hundred dollars for just a few bucks at a garage sale. Doesn't happen often, but it does happen. That's what keeps people going to garage sales.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
A Visit from David
Yesterday I wrote about how I relied upon my friend David, an antique dealer, for assistance in pricing some of the items I purchase at garage sales. Well, he paid me a visit last night.
In preparation for his visit, I moved all my finds to the kitchen table so he could examine them. I ended up with about a dozen items for him to look at. Visions of dollar signs danced in my head.
I was most interested in his opinion as to the value of the two bowls I had purchased for $2.50 each last week. After looking at them carefully, he said they were both Carnival glass, a bowl from the depression era, and an ornate dish, made later. David estimated the value at each between $25 and $35 each.
David also appraised two ceramic planters at about $5 each. An old pictured titled "The Fisherman" was worth $10 at least. And some early metal roller skates with leather straps and a key were worth about $10. I had paid $1 for each of these items. I had also purchased a shoebox containing 10 early Christmas bubble lights and a dozen small Christmas bulb lights. He suggested I price the bubble lights at $30 and maybe $5 for the bulbs. I had paid $3 for the entire box of lights.
The big surprise of the night was the value of an old lamp I had purchased. I will write about that in my next posting.
In preparation for his visit, I moved all my finds to the kitchen table so he could examine them. I ended up with about a dozen items for him to look at. Visions of dollar signs danced in my head.
I was most interested in his opinion as to the value of the two bowls I had purchased for $2.50 each last week. After looking at them carefully, he said they were both Carnival glass, a bowl from the depression era, and an ornate dish, made later. David estimated the value at each between $25 and $35 each.
David also appraised two ceramic planters at about $5 each. An old pictured titled "The Fisherman" was worth $10 at least. And some early metal roller skates with leather straps and a key were worth about $10. I had paid $1 for each of these items. I had also purchased a shoebox containing 10 early Christmas bubble lights and a dozen small Christmas bulb lights. He suggested I price the bubble lights at $30 and maybe $5 for the bulbs. I had paid $3 for the entire box of lights.
The big surprise of the night was the value of an old lamp I had purchased. I will write about that in my next posting.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Ask An Expert !
I do know a lot about garage sales and selling, but when it comes to pricing some vintage or potentially valuable items, I ask my friend, David, for advice. He is an antique dealer and can easily distinguish what is valuable from what is not. And he also knows other dealers, if he is stumped, and has tons of books on every aspect of collectibles. I have learned a great deal from him.
As I prepare for my first lawn sale, I have a box of items that I want David to look over. For example, last weekend I purchased 2 old bowls for $2.50 each. The seller told me that everything came from a relative's farm in Wisconsin and was at least 50 years old. The bowls I purchased are in mint condition and have to be worth much more than I paid for them. I suspect that the seller made a major financial error with incorrect pricing by not having a knowledgeable person look at the offerings first. That's how and why you find bargains at garage sales.
Bottom line: If you are going to sell something that may be valuable, do your homework before putting a price tag on it.
As I prepare for my first lawn sale, I have a box of items that I want David to look over. For example, last weekend I purchased 2 old bowls for $2.50 each. The seller told me that everything came from a relative's farm in Wisconsin and was at least 50 years old. The bowls I purchased are in mint condition and have to be worth much more than I paid for them. I suspect that the seller made a major financial error with incorrect pricing by not having a knowledgeable person look at the offerings first. That's how and why you find bargains at garage sales.
Bottom line: If you are going to sell something that may be valuable, do your homework before putting a price tag on it.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Too Many Treasures!
I thought I would take this opportunity to tell you about some of the treasures I purchased at garage sales so far this season. My best find has probably been a vintage Imperial chocolate slag pitcher, which I got for $1, but sells for about $20. Another purchase was season one of the Golden Girls on dvd for $2. From the same seller I purchased a large analog tv with a built-in dvd player, $8.
At another sale I got a brass or copper table lamp from the 1920's or 30's (judging from the electric cord & plug). It has a large elaborate glass shade surrounded by hanging crystals that go all around the lamp. I got it for two dollars, but plan to try and sell it for $125 or so at my next lawn sale. And I now have a backlog of vhs movies and dvds to watch in my spare time. I buy the vhs for $1 or less, and usually pay $2-$3 for a dvd. Looking forward to what I will discover next!
At another sale I got a brass or copper table lamp from the 1920's or 30's (judging from the electric cord & plug). It has a large elaborate glass shade surrounded by hanging crystals that go all around the lamp. I got it for two dollars, but plan to try and sell it for $125 or so at my next lawn sale. And I now have a backlog of vhs movies and dvds to watch in my spare time. I buy the vhs for $1 or less, and usually pay $2-$3 for a dvd. Looking forward to what I will discover next!
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Rainy Days of June
I heard on the news that June is one of our rainiest months, and it is living up to its reputation this year. And it certainly has a major impact on garage sales. Sellers postpone or cancel sales on rainy days and rain also cuts down on attendance at sales. Buyers don't want to get wet, either. The good news is that drier days are ahead and until then it's a great time to plan your garage sale by collecting and pricing seldom-used items in your home. And when it does rain, remember that some sales do go on --- and that means less buyers, less competition. You may be able to pick up some great rainy day deals!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Garage Sale Signs
One of the most helpful and annoying things about garage sales are the signs people post. The best signs are larger ones with an arrow, dates, and address. Attaching a balloon lets you know the sign is current.
The worst ones are small and just say "garage sale." They leave you guessing. The signs I hate the most are the ones left up days or weeks after the sale is over. Other useless signs include those 8" by 10" or smaller ones posted on telephone poles or streetlights. Impossible to read from a passing car, and people walking by rarely notice them. And usually they are out of date also.
If you are taking the time and effort to use signs, please be smart about it!
The worst ones are small and just say "garage sale." They leave you guessing. The signs I hate the most are the ones left up days or weeks after the sale is over. Other useless signs include those 8" by 10" or smaller ones posted on telephone poles or streetlights. Impossible to read from a passing car, and people walking by rarely notice them. And usually they are out of date also.
If you are taking the time and effort to use signs, please be smart about it!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
More Neighborhood Sales!
This is the time of year many neighborhoods host garage sales. You can usually just park your car and walk from sale to sale. Saves on gas and let's you hit a multitude of individual sales in a short amount of time.
If you live in the Minneapolis area, I noticed that three neighborhood sales are coming up in the near future. This week, Richfield has their community garage sales on May 20 and 21. Also coming up are the Kenny and Armitage neighborhood sales on May 29. And finally, the ECCO neighborhood sales (East Lake Calhoun) are June 5 from 9 to 4 pm.
If you live in the Minneapolis area, I noticed that three neighborhood sales are coming up in the near future. This week, Richfield has their community garage sales on May 20 and 21. Also coming up are the Kenny and Armitage neighborhood sales on May 29. And finally, the ECCO neighborhood sales (East Lake Calhoun) are June 5 from 9 to 4 pm.
Medina Flea Market Update
I took the short drive from south Minneapolis to Medina on Sunday morning to attend the first flea market of this season. The weather was perfect. Looked like all the (200+) vendor spaces were taken. One vendor told me she had to show up and set up at 4 am just to get a good spot for the 6 am to noon event. Lots of buyers were there looking for bargains. My find was a 1930s wood table radio (non-working) for five dollars. It was priced at $10, but the seller took my offer.
A reminder that the flea market will be operating Sunday mornings through October. Buyers are free; parking is free. Vendors are charged $20 to set up.
A reminder that the flea market will be operating Sunday mornings through October. Buyers are free; parking is free. Vendors are charged $20 to set up.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Instant Ancestors
One of the topics I wrote about in my book, Garage Sale Fever!, was what to do with empty photo frames. You see them at sales, priced at one dollar or less, and rarely are they purchased. My discovery is to put an old photograph in the frame and to sell it as an Instant Ancestor. I found that both frames and old photos do not sell well alone, but together they create interest and sales.
Old framed photos not only draw attention to the frame, they increase the value of the frame. I use old photographs (1920s to 1950s) of cars, children, dogs, horses, horse-drawn carriages, people in old bathing suits, ---- anything that draws interest. I have found many people collect specific photos of old cars, trains, planes, etc. The photos come from boxes of family photos where the subject is unknown. Or I purchase interesting photos at garage sales. I sell them generally from one to five dollars, framed. Give it a try!
Old framed photos not only draw attention to the frame, they increase the value of the frame. I use old photographs (1920s to 1950s) of cars, children, dogs, horses, horse-drawn carriages, people in old bathing suits, ---- anything that draws interest. I have found many people collect specific photos of old cars, trains, planes, etc. The photos come from boxes of family photos where the subject is unknown. Or I purchase interesting photos at garage sales. I sell them generally from one to five dollars, framed. Give it a try!
Monday, May 3, 2010
Bryn Mawr Garage Sales
The Bryn Mawr neighborhood garage sales were packed on Saturday, as usual. I arrived at 8 am and it was difficult to find a place to park. My treasures purchased included a vintage ceramic deer planter, an old vase, season one of the Golden Girls on dvd (just $2!), a tv /dvd combo for $8, and various books and vhs movies. Less than usual, but I was pleased. Left about noon. Looking forward to more sales this weekend.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Neighborhood Sales
Large neighborhood garage sales are my favorite places for finding treasures. I love it when I can just park my car and wander up and down alleys going from sale to sale. These sales are extremely popular, so you need to get there early, about 8 am.
One of the best neighborhood sales is this weekend, May 1 - 2, in Minneapolis. It is the Bryn Mawr neighborhood sales, located west of downtown Minneapolis. I have found lots of bargains there over the years. I never miss it.
One of the best neighborhood sales is this weekend, May 1 - 2, in Minneapolis. It is the Bryn Mawr neighborhood sales, located west of downtown Minneapolis. I have found lots of bargains there over the years. I never miss it.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Medina Flea Market Begins May 16
The Hamel Lions Flea Market is a Sunday event you don't want to miss! It runs on Sunday mornings from 6 am until noon from May until October in the parking lot of the Medina Entertainment Center. It's twenty miles west of Minneapolis on Highway 55. It's free for buyers and $20 per vendor. Free parking. Lots of antiques, collectibles, plants, vegetables, electronics, furniture, clothing --- a little bit of everything. At capacity, in good weather, about 200 vendors may be participating, so there is a lot to look at and buy! For more details, go to the Medina Entertainment Center web site and click on the link to the Hamel Lions.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
It's Buying Time!
In Minnesota and other parts of the country, this weekend is the official beginning of garage sale season. Look for neighborhood sales and individual sales scattered about your area. It's time to buy!
When it comes to buying technique, I have several suggestions you may find helpful. If you can, be the first buyer at the sale so you get first crack at everything. This means arriving when the sale opens, usually around 8 am. But if you can't be the first one there, my second choice would be one of the last ones to arrive. Sales usually close about 4 or 5 pm. Leftover items are often greatly reduced in price and sellers are open to offers.
I also encourage shoppers to make an offer. Offer slightly below the asking price and chances are your offer will be accepted. For example, offer five dollars for an item priced at six or seven dollars. It is like having an instant coupon! And do not be afraid to make an offer. Most sellers inflate prices slightly in anticipation of offers. At worst, the seller may decline your offer, then you can decide if you want to pay the asking price.
Ask questions. That's another must for buyers. If it is an electric item, ask if it works. Plug it in, if an outlet is available. Check that the item is complete and not missing any pieces.
And the best advice I can give a buyer is that if you pick up an item and have an interest in buying it, do not set it down and walk away. Chances are someone else will already have it in their hands when you are ready to buy. If you are not sure, carry it with you until you make your decision.
Now, go find some bargains this weekend!
When it comes to buying technique, I have several suggestions you may find helpful. If you can, be the first buyer at the sale so you get first crack at everything. This means arriving when the sale opens, usually around 8 am. But if you can't be the first one there, my second choice would be one of the last ones to arrive. Sales usually close about 4 or 5 pm. Leftover items are often greatly reduced in price and sellers are open to offers.
I also encourage shoppers to make an offer. Offer slightly below the asking price and chances are your offer will be accepted. For example, offer five dollars for an item priced at six or seven dollars. It is like having an instant coupon! And do not be afraid to make an offer. Most sellers inflate prices slightly in anticipation of offers. At worst, the seller may decline your offer, then you can decide if you want to pay the asking price.
Ask questions. That's another must for buyers. If it is an electric item, ask if it works. Plug it in, if an outlet is available. Check that the item is complete and not missing any pieces.
And the best advice I can give a buyer is that if you pick up an item and have an interest in buying it, do not set it down and walk away. Chances are someone else will already have it in their hands when you are ready to buy. If you are not sure, carry it with you until you make your decision.
Now, go find some bargains this weekend!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Flea Market Alert !
One of the best signs of spring in Minnesota is the return of Prime Promotions Antique Spectacular at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. It is Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18, and hours are Saturday: 8 am to 6 pm, and Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm. General admission is six dollars. This is both an indoor and outdoor event, offering antiques, collectibles, flea market items, a bit of everything. Lots of bargains!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Garage Sale Goals
As garage sale season rapidly approaches, many people will be holding their first sale in April or early May. As you prepare, one task that I believe is important to do is to set some goals. I find goals motivational and they help me focus on achieving results.
The first goal I would suggest is putting in writing the amount of money you want to earn from your sale. How much do you want to make? Once you set this goal, you can figure out what needs to be done to achieve it. For example, if you set a goal of one hundred dollars, it might break down like this: You would need to sell 40 twenty-five cent items ($10), thirty one-dollar items ($30), six five-dollar items ($30), and three items of $10 or more, ($30).
The question then becomes, is this a reasonable goal? Do you have over forty 25-cent items, perhaps paperbacks, to sell? Have you got plenty of one dollar, five dollar, and ten dollar items to make $100 in total sales possible? Remember that many items may not sell, so you may need 15 five-dollar items in order to meet your five dollar quota. In short, do you have enough items, priced accordingly, to sell?
The second goal I suggest is to decide how you would spend your garage sale income. This goal can add fuel to your motivation. If you reach your goal, you are rewarded with perhaps, gasoline money for the money, a rent payment, purchase of a new television or appliance, the start of a vacation fund, or just money to buy groceries. Which of these goals, if any, would motivate you to reach your garage sales goal?
One last thing: Before you set your goals, get it clear in your mind why you are having this sale. It could be to make a specific amount of money, or it could be to get rid of clutter. It could be both. This decision also helps you price your items accordingly. Good luck!
The first goal I would suggest is putting in writing the amount of money you want to earn from your sale. How much do you want to make? Once you set this goal, you can figure out what needs to be done to achieve it. For example, if you set a goal of one hundred dollars, it might break down like this: You would need to sell 40 twenty-five cent items ($10), thirty one-dollar items ($30), six five-dollar items ($30), and three items of $10 or more, ($30).
The question then becomes, is this a reasonable goal? Do you have over forty 25-cent items, perhaps paperbacks, to sell? Have you got plenty of one dollar, five dollar, and ten dollar items to make $100 in total sales possible? Remember that many items may not sell, so you may need 15 five-dollar items in order to meet your five dollar quota. In short, do you have enough items, priced accordingly, to sell?
The second goal I suggest is to decide how you would spend your garage sale income. This goal can add fuel to your motivation. If you reach your goal, you are rewarded with perhaps, gasoline money for the money, a rent payment, purchase of a new television or appliance, the start of a vacation fund, or just money to buy groceries. Which of these goals, if any, would motivate you to reach your garage sales goal?
One last thing: Before you set your goals, get it clear in your mind why you are having this sale. It could be to make a specific amount of money, or it could be to get rid of clutter. It could be both. This decision also helps you price your items accordingly. Good luck!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
How To Price Items to Sell
One of the questions I am asked the most is how to price an item. Some items are easy to price, like ordinary paperback books, 25 to 50 cents each. And compact disks (CDs) sell for one to five dollars each, depending on the artist. However, when it comes to pricing, my best advice is simple: Do Your Homework and Research.
Begin by attending other garage sales. Bring along a pen and pad and actually take notes of prices being charged. This will give you a ballpark price on many common garage sale items. Also, check newspaper classified ads.
Before you set prices, decide if you are selling items to raise money, or if you are having a sale to just get rid of stuff. Price your items accordingly.
People Go To Sales Looking For Bargains. That's the key to a successful sale.
Remember that inexpensive items sell the best. Items priced at 25 cents, 50 cents and one dollar will account for most of your sales. As prices increase, selling chances decrease.
As far as antiques and collectibles go, items older than 1970 MAY be collectibles and may require research to determine price. Use the Internet or visit antique stores to look at similar items.
Leave room for bargaining. Many buyers will make you an offer, so you might want to add fifty cents to a few dollars on items in order to be able to come down on a price and accommodate an offer.
Suggestions from sales I have seen: Everything on this table one dollar each. OR Take what you want and pay what you want. OR Everything is 25 cents each. (Avoid pricing items at 10 or 15 cents).
Again, actually going to garage sales and checking out your competition is the best way to determine pricing. Best of luck on your first sale of 2010!
Begin by attending other garage sales. Bring along a pen and pad and actually take notes of prices being charged. This will give you a ballpark price on many common garage sale items. Also, check newspaper classified ads.
Before you set prices, decide if you are selling items to raise money, or if you are having a sale to just get rid of stuff. Price your items accordingly.
People Go To Sales Looking For Bargains. That's the key to a successful sale.
Remember that inexpensive items sell the best. Items priced at 25 cents, 50 cents and one dollar will account for most of your sales. As prices increase, selling chances decrease.
As far as antiques and collectibles go, items older than 1970 MAY be collectibles and may require research to determine price. Use the Internet or visit antique stores to look at similar items.
Leave room for bargaining. Many buyers will make you an offer, so you might want to add fifty cents to a few dollars on items in order to be able to come down on a price and accommodate an offer.
Suggestions from sales I have seen: Everything on this table one dollar each. OR Take what you want and pay what you want. OR Everything is 25 cents each. (Avoid pricing items at 10 or 15 cents).
Again, actually going to garage sales and checking out your competition is the best way to determine pricing. Best of luck on your first sale of 2010!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Collecting Calendars
It's the last day of March and that means changing of the calendars at my house. My wall calendars are all vintage, dating from 1929 into the early 1960s. I own several that match 2010; they include 1954, 1943, and 1999. My 1961 calendar began as a 2010 match, but leap year in February of that year ended the match.
My favorite calendar is a 1959 wall calendar from Saint Paul, MN advertising Sanitary Farm Dairy, the local milk company back then. The calendar is our family calendar for that year and lists all the family appointments and birthdays for that year.
People collect calendars for a variety of reasons. Some collect by advertising or the sponsor of the calendar. Others collect by subject matter. I collect calendars by year if the vintage look of the calendar appeals to me. Vintage calendars are generally worth $5 and up, more depending on condition and if they do not have writing on them. Those dated before 1980 may be sought after by collectors.
So, don't throw out those old calendars you come across. Chances are someone may be willing to buy them at your next garage sale!
My favorite calendar is a 1959 wall calendar from Saint Paul, MN advertising Sanitary Farm Dairy, the local milk company back then. The calendar is our family calendar for that year and lists all the family appointments and birthdays for that year.
People collect calendars for a variety of reasons. Some collect by advertising or the sponsor of the calendar. Others collect by subject matter. I collect calendars by year if the vintage look of the calendar appeals to me. Vintage calendars are generally worth $5 and up, more depending on condition and if they do not have writing on them. Those dated before 1980 may be sought after by collectors.
So, don't throw out those old calendars you come across. Chances are someone may be willing to buy them at your next garage sale!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Your Own Treasure Hunt
As garage sale season is about to begin in Minnesota, one thing I like to do is to prepare for my very own Treasure Hunt. You might like to try it also. Start by making a list of the items you want to find and purchase this year. If you want, you can also list the price you want to pay. You then carry this list with you all year to garage sales, flea markets, and estate sales as a reminder.
I put this into practice a few years ago when my uncle was reading western paperbacks by a specific author. He gave me a list of the titles to look for, and I enjoyed the search. I was able to locate many of the books on his list.
One variation of this is to use garage sales to do your Christmas shopping. By creating a Christmas shopping list and carrying it with you all year, you can find some nice vintage gifts for friends and family who are collectors. This eliminates the frantic early December search for gifts, can make your gifts more personal and special, and can save you money.
So what do you want to find this year? Chances are you can find it at a garage sale.
I put this into practice a few years ago when my uncle was reading western paperbacks by a specific author. He gave me a list of the titles to look for, and I enjoyed the search. I was able to locate many of the books on his list.
One variation of this is to use garage sales to do your Christmas shopping. By creating a Christmas shopping list and carrying it with you all year, you can find some nice vintage gifts for friends and family who are collectors. This eliminates the frantic early December search for gifts, can make your gifts more personal and special, and can save you money.
So what do you want to find this year? Chances are you can find it at a garage sale.
Monday, March 29, 2010
My First Find of 2010
I was walking my dog, Daniel, down the alley last week, when I noticed a trash bin overflowing with stuff. On the top of the pile were old scrapbooks, so I could not resist taking a look. Most of it was empty binders and scrapbooks, but near the top of the bin I found a vintage black scrapbook full of photos and postcards dating back to 1907. Photos include old cars, horse & buggy, cute kids of the 1920s, homes and gardens. About 50 photos in all. If I were to sell it, it might bring $25 or more. Again, someone's trash is my treasure!
10 Reasons Why Garage Sales Are Hotter Than Ever!
Garage sale fever continues to sweep across the United States. It’s a contagious virus because the word is out how profitable they can be for both buyers and sellers. Here’s ten reasons why record numbers of Americans are participating in the Great American Treasure Hunt.
Supplement the family budget.
People are fighting high gasoline prices and rising prices at the grocery store by selling unwanted and unused household items through a garage sale. Books, CDs, furniture, electronics, clothing and collectibles can be turned into cash in a matter of hours. What could be better than having strangers hand you money for stuff you no longer need?
It’s the smart way to de-clutter!
Too much stuff in your house or apartment? It’s a common problem for many. The smart solution is to pack up the clutter, stick a price tag on it, and turn it into cash. If you haven’t used an item in years, chances are you won’t even miss it. Your clutter goes to a new home and you can buy new clutter with the money you make!
Pay below retail for stuff you need.
Avoid paying discount store prices for common household items. Perfectly good gently-used items abound at garage sales. Why pay full retail for a plant stand, toaster or a small bookcase when you can buy them at a fraction of retail? Skip the sales tax too! Draw up a list of items you need for your home and you’ll be surprised at how many are readily available at garage sales.
Search for hidden treasures!
Only at garage sales can you find valuable collectibles at next to nothing prices. Many sellers don’t know the value of the old stuff they found in the attic or a closet. Many an item on Antiques Roadshow originated at a garage sale. If you enjoy hunting for treasure and know the real value of collectibles, garage sales can offer incredible discoveries!
Little work, high pay.
Many people who hold garage sales find they can earn fifteen to twenty dollars an hour for their efforts after the sale is over. A few books sold equal a few dollars in your wallet. A few CDs add to your income. Sell a couple twenty dollar items and it boosts your bottom line. And all you do is box your unwanted staff and haul it out to a few tables in the garage or on your lawn. The bottom line is that garage sales are so popular because they generate easy money.
Sell your finds on eBay!
Many people use garage sales as a source for what they sell online. They buy stuff for next to nothing at local sales and offer it online to people around the world. This type of never-ending garage sale lets you sell year-long regardless of the weather to a global audience. Instead of people coming to your garage sale, you bring your best stuff to them via the Internet. Bidding wars can even sweeten your profit. It’s the smart way to do business.
It’s the inexpensive way to build a collection.
Whether you collect salt and pepper shakers, tube radios, rare books, fishing lures, or military items, garage sales are the best way to avoid those high antique store prices. (And where do you think antique dealers buy their merchandise anyway)? Build your collection over time and enjoy the hunt for the treasure you seek!
Shop for gifts at garage sales.
As you shop at garage sales, keep in mind upcoming birthdays and Christmas. If a friend or family member is a collector pr desires a specific item, you can find the perfect gift for them at a bargain price. Why wait just before a birthday and search all over for a nice gift when you can leisurely look all year long and pay less than retail?
You can bargain and make offers at garage sales.
Unlike retail stores, prices are flexible at garage sales. You don’t always have to pay the sticker price. At garage sales, making an offer is just like using a coupon at a retail store. Sellers will often take off ten to fifty percent of a price, depending how much they want to sell it. All you have to do is just ask. If an item is priced at two dollars, offer one dollar. Chances are the seller will accept, and you will have just saved fifty percent of the tagged price!
You can be your own boss for the day.
When you hold a garage sale, you make the decisions. It’s like opening your own retail store for just a day. You set the prices and your hours. Your creativity (and luck) gets put to the test. You do the work and reap all the rewards. It’s an enjoyable way to spend the day that can be quite a profitable experience.
Supplement the family budget.
People are fighting high gasoline prices and rising prices at the grocery store by selling unwanted and unused household items through a garage sale. Books, CDs, furniture, electronics, clothing and collectibles can be turned into cash in a matter of hours. What could be better than having strangers hand you money for stuff you no longer need?
It’s the smart way to de-clutter!
Too much stuff in your house or apartment? It’s a common problem for many. The smart solution is to pack up the clutter, stick a price tag on it, and turn it into cash. If you haven’t used an item in years, chances are you won’t even miss it. Your clutter goes to a new home and you can buy new clutter with the money you make!
Pay below retail for stuff you need.
Avoid paying discount store prices for common household items. Perfectly good gently-used items abound at garage sales. Why pay full retail for a plant stand, toaster or a small bookcase when you can buy them at a fraction of retail? Skip the sales tax too! Draw up a list of items you need for your home and you’ll be surprised at how many are readily available at garage sales.
Search for hidden treasures!
Only at garage sales can you find valuable collectibles at next to nothing prices. Many sellers don’t know the value of the old stuff they found in the attic or a closet. Many an item on Antiques Roadshow originated at a garage sale. If you enjoy hunting for treasure and know the real value of collectibles, garage sales can offer incredible discoveries!
Little work, high pay.
Many people who hold garage sales find they can earn fifteen to twenty dollars an hour for their efforts after the sale is over. A few books sold equal a few dollars in your wallet. A few CDs add to your income. Sell a couple twenty dollar items and it boosts your bottom line. And all you do is box your unwanted staff and haul it out to a few tables in the garage or on your lawn. The bottom line is that garage sales are so popular because they generate easy money.
Sell your finds on eBay!
Many people use garage sales as a source for what they sell online. They buy stuff for next to nothing at local sales and offer it online to people around the world. This type of never-ending garage sale lets you sell year-long regardless of the weather to a global audience. Instead of people coming to your garage sale, you bring your best stuff to them via the Internet. Bidding wars can even sweeten your profit. It’s the smart way to do business.
It’s the inexpensive way to build a collection.
Whether you collect salt and pepper shakers, tube radios, rare books, fishing lures, or military items, garage sales are the best way to avoid those high antique store prices. (And where do you think antique dealers buy their merchandise anyway)? Build your collection over time and enjoy the hunt for the treasure you seek!
Shop for gifts at garage sales.
As you shop at garage sales, keep in mind upcoming birthdays and Christmas. If a friend or family member is a collector pr desires a specific item, you can find the perfect gift for them at a bargain price. Why wait just before a birthday and search all over for a nice gift when you can leisurely look all year long and pay less than retail?
You can bargain and make offers at garage sales.
Unlike retail stores, prices are flexible at garage sales. You don’t always have to pay the sticker price. At garage sales, making an offer is just like using a coupon at a retail store. Sellers will often take off ten to fifty percent of a price, depending how much they want to sell it. All you have to do is just ask. If an item is priced at two dollars, offer one dollar. Chances are the seller will accept, and you will have just saved fifty percent of the tagged price!
You can be your own boss for the day.
When you hold a garage sale, you make the decisions. It’s like opening your own retail store for just a day. You set the prices and your hours. Your creativity (and luck) gets put to the test. You do the work and reap all the rewards. It’s an enjoyable way to spend the day that can be quite a profitable experience.
Monday, March 15, 2010
The Mysterious Trunk
In June of 2009, I became the owner of a large, heavy black trunk that probably dates back to the 1940s. I came across it while walking my dog down the alley and found it next to a trash container. It came from a house that had just been sold, the owners moving out of state, according to a neighbor. They had already tossed out a vintage lamp and wooden step-stool that I pulled from their trash bin. But there was something different about this big, black, trunk.
It has the initials A.W.J. Jr. painted in white on the top. You can read numerous stickers on it, one from the Univ. of Carolina and another from McCallie School. One label partially covers up a shipping label with the date 1943 with the last name of James.
And I can tell you it is really heavy. I had to have help getting it into the back of my car, then it stayed inside my garage for weeks until a friend helped me carry it into my kitchen. It has become a kitchen fixture, sitting in from of my stove. The trunk measures 41 inches in length, 22 inches in width and it is 14 inches deep.
The question is, what is inside? Five solid brass Yale locks are hiding the answer. Some who have seen it speculate the locked trunk is too heavy to be empty. Yet nothing shifts when it is lifted. And why would people toss it out? Did they know the contents of it? Was nothing of value inside? Did they once have the key and lose it? Or has it remained locked since the 1940s? I keep thinking it might contain personal items from a WWII serviceman.
So now it is 2010 and the big old trunk remains in my kitchen. I have tried to open it occasionally when I come across a Yale key. And I did check with a locksmith who offered to open it for thirty dollars.
I love a mystery and have decided to let the mystery build for a while. I will open it in 2010 one way or another, perhaps on a special occasion or during a party. When the grand opening happens, you’ll be the first to know.
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