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Allow adequate time to plan and prepare - several weeks.
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Selecting the right date is important so it won't conflict with holidays or special events that could compete for attendance.
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Weekends are generally more successful than weekdays. Bigger is better.
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Practical household goods such as appliances, dishes, furniture, tools, and the like are good sellers. Clothing typically doesn't have a high resale value with the possible exception of children's clothes in good condition.
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Try to merchandise your goods in an attractive manner as if you were displaying them in a store.
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Items should be clean and if not in working order, labeled accordingly.
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A classified ad in the newspaper listing some of the more desirable items can greatly increase your foot traffic.
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Bulletin boards in grocery stores and other public places can provide additional exposure.
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Make attractive signs to direct people to your home. The nicer the sign, the more attention it will attract.
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Post a sign stating that all sales are final.
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Visit other garage sales to see what works well.
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You'll need to have cash on hand to make change for customers.