It’s here! Garage sale season has officially begun! I am obsessed with finding good garage sales and good deals. If you happened to glance at my basement {ahem, daughter’s playroom} you would think I am crazy and that my daughter is spoiled. While I am not saying either of those statements are false, you would be shocked to know what I paid for many of those toys. Garage sales are the best place to find good deals on many things, especially toys! I have found that garage sales have cheaper prices than consignment sales. Here are some tips to finding those perfect deals!
1. Locate: I highly recommend an app to find sales.
If you are an Android user, it’s called Garage Sales, Everywhere! If you are an Apple user, it’s called Yard Sale Treasure Map. This app is based on the listings on Craigslist. You pick the day of the week you are looking to shop, keep in mind that Saturday is the most popular, and you set your location. The app allows you to see the sales on a map and you are able to save the sale. You can get directions and it will pull up Google Maps. You are able to read the entire listing and view images from the app. It’s awesome. It’s my go-to! I bought a paper one time and I was very disappointed because most listings were on Craigslist.
2. Find neighborhood sales!
Neighborhood sales are great if you have to take the littles. At a neighborhood sale, you’ll only have to unload and load the kiddos and stroller once! Wear walking shoes though!
3. Research: you may have a list of items you really want, maybe patio furniture, kids toys/clothes, home décor, etc.
I highly recommend researching some prices for items so that you know you are getting a good deal or so you can negotiate!
4. Get up early! Most sales start at 8 and most say “no early birds!”
That means don’t show up at any time earlier than 8. Respect the seller! Allow them time to set up without you interrupting.
5. Go later.
You may miss out on the “good stuff,” but many times sellers just want their stuff gone and will give you a better deal!
6. Cash!? What is that? But for real, stop by the ATM and grab some money!
Most sellers do not have the ability to accept credit cards and sadly it’s getting harder to trust personal checks.
7. Take a big car/truck: based on what you are looking for, take the appropriate sized vehicle.
It stinks for both you and the seller to have to find a time to meet again.
Make your plan of attack and I hope to see y’all out and about Saturday morning!
Do you have any garage sale tips? Leave them in the comments!
