Garage Sale Time

April 28, 2009 · Posted in Shopping 

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For many areas here in the United States, warm weather is returning with the spring, this means one thing, garage sale time! I am starting to notice more and more signs advertising garage sales. I have always loved garage sales. The saying, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure” is true.

I have found many great deals at garage sales. Last summer I bought an antique table for $10! I stripped the cotton-candy pink paint off of it and now it is a lovely dinning table. It took a little bit of work to make it right for me, but not only did I get a wonderful price on it, I have a sense of pride when I look at it.

I do have a few tips on how to make the most of your garage sale outings.

The Local Newspaper

My first tip is to get your local newspaper on Friday and Saturday mornings. In the classified ads, garage sales are often listed. The ad usually includes what will be sold at the sale and it will give you the address and hours. I also find that I can usually plan a route for my morning of garage sale shopping.

Get Up Early

The best things in a garage sale usually sell very early in the morning. Most people who do this as a serious hobby go very early to get the good finds. I usually try to be out by 7a.m. shopping and browsing local garage sales. The beauty of being out early is that if you see something you like, you do not have to buy it right away, you can return at the end of the day and usually buy the item at a cheaper price. However, if you do not want to risk that item being sold throughout the day, just buy it then.

Do Not Be Afraid to Haggle

Keep in mind, that most people have garage sales because they either want to get rid of stuff laying around the house or the want to make some money. Either way, they want to make a sale. Don’t be afraid to ask for a better price on an item, remember you are not shopping at Macy’s you are shopping in someone’s driveway. Also keep in mind, that the worst thing that could happen is the person says, “no.” I always try to pay less than the item is listed for.

Bring a Larger Vehicle

You never know what you will find out on you garage sale adventure. I found my dinning room table while I was out on a bike ride with my husband. The couple we bought it from were more than happy to hold it for us so we could return with our car.

Take a Friend

Just like a day of regular shopping, garage sale days can be a fun event with a couple friends. If you are looking for something in particular, let your friend know, an extra pair of eyes may help you spot exactly what you are looking for.

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Comments

One Response to “Garage Sale Time”

  1. Paul on July 17th, 2009 10:52 am

    The main tip is – always ask for a better price. Honestly I managed to cut the price by 50 percent couple of times for the things I really needed. So don’t be shy, try to get a better offer. :)

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