Pre-Move Garage Sale Tips
1. Start Early
Ideally, start planning your moving garage sale a few months in advance. This gives you enough time to sort through your belongings, price items and advertise the sale.
2. Create a Checklist
Develop a step-by-step checklist to keep you on track. If you prefer, search online for a printable list that you can follow.
3. Check Regulations
Don’t forget to ask your HOA or landlord for permission and yard-sale guidelines. You may also need a permit from your city.
4. Designate a Collection Zone
Allocate a zone in your basement or garage for items you want to sell. This will help you stay organized and make it easier to sort through your belongings.
5. Research Prices
If you’re unsure about the value of certain items, do some research to see how similar items are selling on classified boards or auction websites. Here are a few additional pricing tips:
- It’s common to think your items are worth more than buyers do. Ask a friend or neighbor to help set prices to ensure they are fair and appealing.
- Charge 20-30% of the original price. For example, a sofa purchased for $400 can be priced between $80 and $120 if it’s still in great shape.
- Offer bundle deals for less-desirable items. For instance, sell 20 books for $5 to attract buyers looking for bargains.
6. Organize and Price Your Items
Use Price Stickers
Clearly mark each item with a price sticker. This not only makes it easier for buyers but also helps you keep track of what you’ve sold.
Categorize Items
Group similar items together, such as kitchen supplies, books or toys. This makes it easier for buyers to find what they’re looking for.
The Items: What Should I Sell?
A few of the most popular items at a moving yard sale include:
- Working appliances
- Audio-visual items (e.g., camcorders, DVD players)
- Safe, working baby equipment or furniture
- Books, LPs, DVDs and CDs
- Furniture and lamps
- Kitchen supplies
- Gardening supplies and tools
- Bicycles and scooters
- Toys and games
- Re-potted plants or seedlings
- Area rugs
- Sporting equipment
Spread the Word: How to Advertise Your Moving Sale
1. Online Listings
Advertise your moving sale online. Websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are excellent platforms to reach a wider audience.
2. Create Eye-Catching Signs
Place signs around your neighborhood a few days before the sale to attract local buyers. Make sure they are easy to read and include the date, time and address.
3. Social Media
Use your social media accounts to post about the sale. Encourage friends to share your posts to reach an even larger audience.
4. Word of Mouth
Tell friends, family and neighbors about your sale. The more people who know, the better your chances of having a successful turnout.
5. Community Boards
Post flyers on community boards at local grocery stores, libraries and other high-traffic areas.
Sale Away to a Smooth Move
After your successful pre-move garage sale, it’s time to shift gears and focus on the next big step. Ensure your transition is seamless and stress-free by partnering with Wheaton for all your relocation needs. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, our experienced team is here to assist with every aspect of your move. Contact Wheaton for professional, reliable relocation help and start your new chapter with confidence.
