People love bargains and they are naturally curious when they see a neighborhood sign offering some great bargains at a yard sale. Many drive by or stop to have a look, but only a handful of people actually make a purchase. Using a few strategic, tried-and true-tips, you can turn those casual lookers into happy buyers.
First of all, use a brightly colored poster board, with black block letters to make your sign easy to spot. Studies show that bright orange is the most effective at attracting attention, and it puts people in a happy shopping mood.
Next, do some strategic arranging. Make sure to put popular items out front, where they can easily be seen by people driving by. Appliances, TVs, baby items, and bicycles are good front line choices.
Hang clothing up and have it sorted by size. It can increase sales up to 50%.
Arrange items in sections, housewares in one area, books in another etc. It allows shoppers to gravitate to an area of interest and browse leisurely, instead of wasting time sorting through mixed up piles of stuff.
Have some tempting, low-cost treats available. If it is a hot summer day, offer Dixie cups with lemonade, or a couple of homemade cookies to munch on. People like free stuff and will spend more if the atmosphere is neighborly.
Offer better deals for buying lots of one item. For example, if you have a hundred paperback books you are dying to get rid of, price them by the box, instead of individually. Sell things like yarn and fabric scraps by the bagful.
Have a multi-family sale. People are attracted to variety, and a big event is a great way to draw a big crowd.
Start early, like 7:00 am. Weather is nicer, traffic is better, and serious shoppers will want to get in on the action before everyone else. You will find your sales will be the briskest between 7 and 9 in the morning.
As items are sold, rearrange things. Avoid having big gaps in the lawn, and items looking picked over. Passersby will assume all the good stuff is already gone and drive on without a second look.
Let people test items they are buying. Have an extension cord available so a toaster oven, CD player or TV set can be plugged in and turned on. It reassures the buyer they won't be taking home any junk!
Make things easy for your shopper. Mark prices clearly. Have plenty of shopping bags and boxes. If you are selling large items, have a dolly available to get them easily to the customer's vehicle.
Be sure to have plenty of change so you don't lose any sales!
Irene Helen Zundel is a freelance writer, educator and mother, and an expert in child development, home schooling and creative parenting and home making. Visit her online at http://www.irenehelenzundel.com
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