How to run a garage sale that actually makes money

Hosting a garage sale sounds simple enough — put out some stuff, hang a few signs, and see what sells. But if you want to make it worth the effort (and actually move those old toys, books, and kitchen gadgets), you need a strategy.

Whether you want to declutter, make extra cash, or teach your kids a thing or two about money, this guide helps you pull off a garage sale that’s smooth, successful, and yes, even fun.

Step 1: Choose the right time, place, and strategy

Timing matters. The best days for a garage sale are typically Saturdays and Sundays, with Saturday mornings being the most popular choice. Aim for spring or early summer, when the weather is nice and people are itching to get outside.

Don't forget the checklist:

• Check your community's yard sale rules (permits, signage limits, HOA restrictions).

• Schedule your sale for 8 a.m.–1 p.m. (early birds really do get the worm).

• If you live off the beaten path, consider a friend or family member’s more visible driveway.

• Add a backup plan in case of bad weather. Pick a rain date ahead of time and include it in your posts so buyers know when to return if the skies turn gray.

Step 2: Advertise smarter, not harder

You don’t need a big budget to get big visibility. Use free platforms where buyers are already looking:

Where to post:

• Facebook Marketplace (include photos and keywords like "baby gear" or "furniture")

• Nextdoor (local reach = higher turnout)

• Craigslist (still going strong for bargain hunters)

• Local Facebook groups for parents, families, or community events

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What to include:

• Clear address and dates

• Start/end time

• Top categories (toys, baby items, home decor, tools, clothes)

• Preview photos of your best stuff

Street signs still matter: Make bold, simple signs with arrows pointing from major roads to your sale. Use foam board or poster paper, and don’t forget to remove them afterward.

Step 3: Declutter with intention

Garage sale prep starts with a deep declutter. Go room by room, labeling boxes as "sell," "donate," and "keep."

What sells well:

• Toys and games (especially puzzles with all pieces)

• Baby gear (strollers, high chairs, bouncers)

• Kitchen gadgets and cookware

• Lawn equipment and tools

• Books, DVDs, and vinyl records

• Furniture, especially small pieces

What doesn’t:

• Anything broken, outdated, or dirty

• Shoes without pairs or heavy wear

• Large furniture that’s hard to transport

Step 4: Set prices that encourage buying (not haggling)

Use a pricing system that’s fast and fair. Color-coded stickers are your friend. They eliminate the need to label every single item, making bulk pricing a breeze.

Sample pricing guide:

• Paperbacks: $1

• Toys: $1–$5 (higher if new or name brand)

• Kitchen items: $0.50–$5

• Home decor: $1–$10

• Furniture: 10–30% of original retail value

Group items into bins: “All books $1” or “Fill a bag of clothes for $5” deals encourage more action from buyers and tend to help you avoid any hassle.

Need more tips? We break it down in this complete pricing guide.

Step 5: Set up your space like a pop-up shop

Think about your layout like a store. Make it easy for people to browse and discover treasures.

Yard sale setup checklist:

• Put big-ticket items out front to draw people in.

• Use tables, bins, laundry baskets, and shelves to elevate items off the ground.

• Group similar items together by type (kitchen, toys, clothes, tools).

• Create a checkout station with cash, bags, and a calculator.

• Use tablecloths or sheets to make tables more appealing.

Accept digital payments: Post your Venmo or PayPal QR code at checkout. Tech-savvy shoppers will thank you.

Step 6: Get your kids involved (and teach them along the way)

Let your yard sale double as a money moment. Give your kids a role in the event and a chance to practice real-world skills.

Ideas to engage your kids:

• Put them in charge of pricing their own toys (with your guidance).

• Let them greet shoppers or manage a toy table.

• Have them run a lemonade stand or baked goods booth.

• Teach them how to count change and handle money responsibly.

Use this moment to talk about goals, like what they want to save for, how to spend wisely, and how money adds up over time. With Greenlight's debit card for kids, they can track earnings, build savings habits, and explore investing with your support.

Step 7: Keep it organized and secure

A smooth sale day starts with smart prep. That means having the right tools on hand and keeping your setup safe for you and your shoppers.

Be ready with:

• $50–$100 in small bills (think: ones and fives) to make change easily

• A secure way to store cash, like a fanny pack you wear or a lockable cash box kept in sight

• A calculator or your phone to total up purchases quickly

• Grocery bags, boxes, or reusable totes to make it easy for shoppers to carry their items

• Extension cords so shoppers can test electronics before they buy

Keep safety in mind:

• Set up tables so people can move through easily without bumping into each other.

• Keep fragile or high-value items close to where you’ll be standing.

• Remove or safety-proof any tripping hazards, such as cords or display racks.

Keep your phone charged in case you need it for digital payments, price checks, and posting last-minute updates to your listings.

Step 8: Know what to do with unsold items

Every yard sale ends with a few stragglers — items that didn’t quite find their match. Instead of dragging everything back inside, have a plan ready to go.

Donate to:

• Local shelters, family services, or foster care networks — they often need household basics

• Habitat for Humanity ReStore (great for furniture, tools, and home goods)

• Goodwill, Salvation Army, or your community’s favorite thrift spot

List for free in:

• Facebook Buy Nothing groups

• Freecycle or Craigslist "Free" section

Save for next time: Label and store your best unsold items in a bin for your next yard sale or community event.

Step 9: Turn earnings into a learning opportunity

Once the sale is complete, gather your family, count the money, and discuss what to do with it. This is a great chance to involve your kids and help them understand where the money can go.

Conversation starters:

• What’s something you’d be excited to save up for?

• How should we split this up — maybe a little for now, a little for later?

• Want to set up a savings goal in the Greenlight app so you can keep track?

Teach the value of hard work. Assign chores and allowances, track progress, and help kids learn to earn and manage money with Greenlight. Try Greenlight’s debit card for kids, one month, risk-free.✝

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.