Planning a move is the perfect time to shed some extra belongings—and make a little money in the process. A yard sale helps lighten your load while giving neighbors a chance to pick up useful items. Here’s how to organize an effective, hassle-free yard sale that not only clears out your space but also leaves you with some cash for the move.
Choose the Right Date and Advertise Well
Start by picking a day when people are more likely to be out and about. Weekends are usually best, especially Saturday mornings. Try to avoid dates that coincide with big local events when your potential shoppers will be otherwise occupied. Once you have a date, it’s time to spread the word.
Promote your sale in several ways:
- Local social media: Post on neighborhood Facebook pages, online marketplaces, and community boards. Include photos of any unique or big-ticket items to grab attention.
- Yard sale apps and websites: Sites like Yard Sale Treasure Map and apps like Nextdoor make it easy for bargain hunters to find sales in their area.
- Signage: The day before, post clear, visible signs around the neighborhood with the address, date, and time. Use large letters, bright colors, and arrows to guide people.
Organize Your Sale for Success
First impressions matter, so take time to organize your sale for an appealing, easy-to-navigate setup. Place eye-catching items closer to the road to attract passersby, and group similar items together. Clothing should be hung up whenever possible, as it’s more inviting than rummaging through piles. For small items, use tables and keep things orderly—buyers are more likely to browse items that look neat and intentional.
Use clear, simple pricing. You can price items individually or go with easy, bundled pricing like “Everything on this table for $1.” To avoid making change constantly, round prices to the nearest dollar. Have a cash box with plenty of small bills and coins on hand, and consider taking digital payments for larger sales.
Price to Sell
Remember, the goal of a yard sale before a move is to get rid of things, so price items to sell rather than trying to maximize profit. People are looking for deals, so keep prices fair and flexible. Higher-value items should be labeled accordingly, but for general items, consider pricing lower to encourage more purchases. Bundling items can also help clear things out quickly. Offer deals like “Fill a Bag for $5” to move out a lot of small items at once.
Offer Quality and Cleanliness
Presenting clean, functional items is key to attracting buyers. Before the sale, give your items a quick wipe-down or wash. This small effort goes a long way in showing people that your things are worth buying. An extension cord should be available for electronics so buyers can test them out on-site. Set aside a “free” box for items worn or with minor flaws—this can help clear out lesser-quality items while attracting bargain hunters.
Engage with Buyers and Make it Fun
Yard sales are more than just transactions—they’re social events. Greet everyone who stops by and be available to answer questions. Some shoppers might be looking for something specific, so ask if they’re hunting for anything in particular. The friendlier you are, the more likely people will feel comfortable purchasing. Consider putting on some upbeat music or having a small refreshment stand for an added touch.
What to Do with Leftovers
Even with a successful sale, you may still have items left over. Decide ahead of time what you want to do with these items to avoid bringing them back into the house. Donation centers, shelters, and community organizations are usually happy to take items in good condition. For specialty items, check if there are local organizations that may have specific needs (e.g., tools for a trade school, children’s items for a family center).
Simplify Your Move with a Successful Sale
Holding a yard sale before a move doesn’t just clear space; it gives you a fresh start with fewer belongings and extra funds for your journey. By choosing a good date, organizing your layout, and pricing to sell, you can create an enjoyable, profitable sale that gets you ready for your next chapter.