Everyone knows somebody who is a "Garage Saler". I love going to garage sales, the bargains you can find at these sales are amazing. Did you ever wish you knew what the "pros" know about garage sales and how to find the best deals? Here are some tips to get you started. I am sure there are many, many more than what I have listed, but this will get you started with the basics. If you are an experienced shopper and have more tips that aren't listed please weigh in on this topic. We would love to hear your tips for scoring more deals at Garage Sales!
Figure Out the Best Day
Saturday seems to be a huge day for 1-Day sales across the country, however, this will vary by your location. I came from Ohio where Thursday was "The Day" for sales. We moved to North Carolina and most sales are Huge Saturday events that whole families like to attend. Also, keep in mind, many sellers will plan their sales around paydays - so you may find more sales around the 1st and the 15th.
Map it Out
Use your local paper, Craigslist, message boards etc. to find out where the sales are happening. Many people will start running their ads a day or two before the sale which gives you time to organize your "Hit List". Be sure to map out your trip so you can make the best use of your time and hit as many sales as possible. You can use Google Maps or Mapquest for planning.
Get There Early
This doesn't mean be an "Early Bird", (a person who shows up at least a half hour before the sale starts). At the same time, you want to get an early start to get the best selection. If you plan your route to go in order of when sales open, you can be at several sales right when they start.
Community Sales
In addition to planning your route, try and look for Community and Neighborhood sales. This is an awesome way to hit 30 or more houses without leaving the area. Neighborhood sales are great too because the sellers are competing for the customers and many times wheelin' and dealin' to get you to buy their stuff!
Have a List of What you Need and Sizes (so you don't have to remember)
Are you buying clothes for right now, back to school, possibly even later in the year? It's best to make a list of what you are looking for and what sizes you will need. This is especially helpful for families with more than one child and keeps your mission on track. You can also easily cross items out as they are purchased or quota is met.
Bring a Tape Measure or Sample Shirt/Pants
This goes along with your list of sizes. As we all know sizes will vary depending on how many times it was washed, the manufacturer and so on. It's best to have a tape measure handy to measure lengths of sleeves and hem/waist (you can note these on your list for quick reference).
Buy Bigger Sizes
If you are not buying for use right away or you aren't sure something will fit, buy bigger sizes. Many of the clothes have the elastic waistband in the bottoms anyways and can be adjusted if they run big. This is an important tip to keep in mind when you find a sale with great prices. Buying a season ahead is a great way to stock up and find great deals on clothes (this applies to new and used clothes).
Church and Fundraising Events
Usually when you attend Church Rummage Sales or Fundraiser Sales the items are reasonably priced, especially the clothes because they get so many donations. I don't usually negotiate a lower price for a bulk purchase at these types of sales becuase the money is going to a good cause (seeing as the money is going to a good cause).
Fill a Bag Sales
At these yard sales you fill a bag with items for a flat cost. Be careful to roll things up and place them nicely in the bag so you can fit more items in your bag to maximize the savings.
Nicer Neighborhoods/Nicer Stuff (Many Times Cheaper Prices)
It's true! Great bargains and more designer duds can be found in nicer neighborhoods (that's not to say other neighborhoods don't have nice things). Many times you will find that yard sales in nicer neighborhoods have lower prices. People want to have the sale to get rid of the items, but it's almost like you are doing them a favor by taking it away. The designer clothes are usually abundantly found in these neighborhoods as well.
Don't be Afraid to Negotiate
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for a better deal! If you make a large purchase ask them to knock off $5 or so depending on the total. If it's a high ticket item that you would buy if it was a little less, make an offer. The worst that could happen is that the seller refuses the offer. Generally, sellers price their items slightly higher than what they would sell them for so they are willing to negotiate the price if it's reasonable.
Yard Sales vs. Buying Brand New
It is extremely important to know your prices and know when you are getting a deal at a sale or when it may actually be cheaper purchased brand new. Personally, I find that children are very tough on clothes, short sleeve shirts especially. Many times, I will pass on this item at a yard sale. If you hit an outlet mall, you can get great deals at stores like The Children's Place Outlet. My suggestion would be to plan a trip around a holiday such as Memorial Day or 4th of July because they almost always have additional discounts at the outlets during these times. Also, VERY important to remember your printable coupons for additional savings. This method of shopping for new items has definitely proven to be a money saver!
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