You’re moving into a new home and have all kinds of ideas about new furniture pieces, arrangements, art, and organization. Knowing this, you also know that you’ll need to pare down the items you’re bringing from your current home. Nowadays, there are myriad ways to sell your unwanted belongings. The classic garage sale, or estate sale, is still a great option and there are simple actions that you can take to make sure your sale goes well. Here are some suggestions to help you be successful in selling off and getting rid of all your items, before, during, or after your sale.
Remember, remember, remember—plan ahead! Knowing what you want to sell, what price you can accept, and when you want to host your sale is imperative to your success.
PICK YOUR SALE DATE: Many cities only allow you to conduct yard sales on specific dates or weekends throughout the year. Double-check when you may host your sale. Then pick your time and start advertising a few weeks early. Post signs in your neighborhood and on surrounding city streets if you're allowed. And connect with your social network to spread the word. Include the types of items you’re selling, and even images of your higher-value pieces if you can. If your city requires any notice or paperwork completed, make sure you cross all your T’s well before your sale date.
BIG TICKET ITEMS: If you have any higher-priced items—furniture, appliances, exercise equipment, or tools—consider pricing these items first and starting your sale efforts online. Posting your sale items on Craigslist, eBay, Neighborhood, Facebook Marketplace, Upcycle, and other classified sites can help put your things in front of buyers currently looking for just what you're offering. People looking for specific pieces or professionals looking for new wares for their shops frequently search through these classifieds—and they typically know precisely what their budget is for each item. Once you know your timeline for completing your sales, what day you will host your estate sale, and when you’re moving into your new home get your big-ticket items posted online as early as possible to get the sale process rolling.
Note: for things you are not able to sell or donate, posting items as “Pick up for free” on classified sites can help you unload them with less effort on your end.
THE SALE:
AFTER THE SALE: For the easiest close to your sale, arrange for a local charity to come to pick up any remaining items at the end of the day. Or, have someone on your team (maybe your friend with the pickup?) scheduled to take leftovers to a donation center. This way you won't have to worry about storing any items you weren't able to sell.
Ask your local real estate agent for their advice on preparing for a sale before your next big move.