Declutter and Earn Extra Cash with these Expert-Backed Yard Sale Tips
We all accumulate things over time, whether it’s clothes that don’t fit anymore, old furniture that doesn’t match our new home, or kitchen gadgets we never use. Before we know it, our houses are overflowing with items we no longer need or want. Instead of letting these items gather dust, why not declutter and make some extra cash? Hosting a yard sale is a great way to get rid of your unwanted items and earn some money in the process. However, it takes more than just setting up a table in your front yard to have a successful sale. Here are some expert-backed tips on pricing, setup, advertising, and more to help you run a profitable yard sale.
Pricing Your Items
When it comes to pricing your items, it’s important to strike a balance between making a profit and being reasonable. While you may have paid $100 for a designer dress, it’s unlikely that someone will pay that much at a yard sale. Take into consideration the age and condition of the item, and price accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to price items at 10-25% of their original value. For larger items like furniture, you can go a little higher, but for smaller items, keep the prices low.
It’s also a good idea to have a few “free” items, such as books or small toys, to draw in potential buyers. This will also help to get rid of items that may not sell and create more space for other items.
Set Up Your Sale
The setup of your yard sale is crucial to its success. Make sure to have plenty of tables and racks to display your items. Hanging clothes on a rack will make them more visible and appealing to potential buyers. Group similar items together, such as clothes, books, and kitchen items, to make it easier for shoppers to find what they are looking for.
Also, make sure to have enough cash on hand for change and keep it in a safe place. You don’t want to lose out on a sale because you don’t have the right amount of change. You can also consider using a mobile payment app for those who prefer to pay electronically.
Advertise Your Sale
The key to a successful yard sale is getting the word out. Start by advertising in your local community, such as on community bulletin boards, neighborhood Facebook groups, or through a neighborhood newsletter. You can also put up signs around your neighborhood a day or two before the sale, with the date, time, and address.
Another great way to reach a larger audience is by listing your sale on online yard sale websites or apps. These platforms allow you to reach a wider audience and give potential buyers a preview of what you will be selling.
Make It Appealing
Presentation is key, and this applies to your yard sale as well. Make sure your items are clean and in good condition. Consider ironing clothes and grouping them by size to make it easier for shoppers to browse through. For furniture, add some throw pillows or a fresh coat of paint to make them more appealing.
Also, make sure to have snacks and drinks available for purchase. This will not only help to keep shoppers at your sale longer, but it’s also a great opportunity to make some extra cash.
The Right Way to Clean Your Washing Machine
While hosting a yard sale is a great way to declutter and make some extra cash, it’s also important to take care of your household appliances. Your washing machine is one of the most used appliances in your home, and it’s important to keep it clean to ensure it functions properly. Here are some tips from the pros on how to clean your washing machine.
1. Use the Right Products
Many people don’t realize that they need to clean their washing machine. However, over time, dirt, soap scum, and bacteria can build up inside the machine, affecting its performance. To clean your washing machine, use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. This natural solution will help to break down any buildup and leave your machine smelling fresh.
2. Pay Attention to the Drum and Detergent Drawer
The drum and detergent drawer are two areas of the washing machine that tend to get overlooked when cleaning. To clean the drum, add the vinegar and baking soda mixture and run an empty hot water cycle. For the detergent drawer, remove it and wash it with soap and water. This