10 Tips for Shopping Garage Sales

ForRent.com
by ForRent.com
1 Material
1 Hour
Easy
Warmer weather means that garage sale season is upon us! Before you head out of your apartment hunting for new-to-you treasures, there are a few tips you should know to make the most of your experience.
Let technology work for you. Smartphone apps like Yard Sale, Treasure Map, and Garage Sales by Map allow you to search multiple online garage sale listings to pick which sales are best for your needs.
Hit up the “fancy” neighborhoods. Search for local neighborhoods that are more likely to have higher quality garage sale items and prioritize those sales.
Timing is everything. Set your alarm to hit sales early to have first dibs on the items for sale. You may also want to visit sales at the very end of the day when sellers will be willing to take less for their items just to get rid of them.
Plot your route. To plot the most efficient route between the sales, use a site like Multiplottr. Copy and paste multiple locations into the software and then get directions from one place to another.
Dress for success. Comfy shoes are a must, beyond that you will need to gauge the weather to pick appropriate clothes.
Small talk makes a big difference. Don’t be afraid to engage the sellers in conversation.  Be complimentary about their home and the items for sale. NEVER make fun or speak disparagingly about the things they are selling.
Measure up. If you are on the hunt for furniture items, it is smart to bring a small measuring tape along with you to make sure new-to-you items will fit. Remember, all sales are final.
Everything is negotiable… unless it’s not. Don’t be afraid to ask if the sellers will take less than the marked price for an item or if they are willing to bundle. But, if they are not open to negotiation, respect that and move on.
Cash is king. Be sure to have cash on hand as the vast majority of garage sales only accept it. Smaller bills will be especially appreciated.
Bag it up! Bring your own reusable shopping bags in case sellers don’t have plastic bags for your purchases. You will thank yourself later.
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