Yard Sales Here I Come! (Find what you want at the best price)

People call them garage sales, yard sales or estate sales, and I love them all.  Whether you’re looking for a gently used toy for your toddler or a corner tv stand for your living room, you can get an amazing deal.  I’ve even found brand new products at garage sales!

‘Tis the season, so here are a few straightforward pieces of advice -

First, you have to find them – Check your local papers. I find that people mostly advertise in the freebie papers, but any one will do.  Also, check on craiglist.  When I don’t have a paper handy, online ads come to the rescue.

Bring a friend – After cash, your friend/family member is the best thing you could bring to a yard sale.  It’s a second set of eyes, hands, and legs and someone to help us indecisive people (yep, that would be me)

Don’t forget a reusable bag – If you hit a really good sale you’ll need something to tote your purchases around in as your shop for more goodies.

If you think you like it, don’t let go - Hang on to it while you decide – otherwise you might lose it to another shopper.  Be courteous though and don’t hog it for too long!

Look carefully – I’ve made this mistake.  You quickly snap up that beautiful crystal vase and don’t notice the huge chip/crack until you’re home.  Make sure you thoroughly examine items.

Don’t be afraid to bargain – The seller might say no, but you’ll never know if you don’t ask and it doesn’t mean you’ll lose it forever.  You can always pay their price if you think it’s fair.  Don’t pay more if you don’t have to.

There are so many other little pieces of advice, but the tips above are key.  Go out and have fun and you’ll soon know the thrill of yard saling.