How to Shop at Garage Sales

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

15 Jun 2006 04:36 AM

Shopping at garage sales may seem elementary, but there are some tips that will help you get the most for your money.

Time Your Visits to Garage Sales

Go on the first day of the sale and arrive as soon as the sale begins. You'll have the opportunity to purchase the better items before everything gets picked over. You should also visit at the end of the day on the last day of the sale. Sellers are ready to get rid of stuff by this point and you can often get some great deals.

Handle Your Money Correctly

Never whip out a wad of bills. The person holding the sale won't readily bargain if he or she feels you have plenty of money to pay full price. Keep large bills in one pocket and small bills in another (or in a different section of your purse or wallet). Bring plenty of change with you for smaller items.

Don't Be Shy

Don't be afraid to make an offer or ask the owner to lower the price. This is an especially good option if you are buying several items. The owner won't want to lose the sales and is therefore likely to compromise. Don't be shy about asking for specific items either. Even if you don't see something you're looking for, you might have overlooked it, or the person holding the sale may have items inside that they hadn't thought of adding to the garage sale.

Don't Buy Just Because

Many people fall into the trap of impulse shopping even at garage sales. Since you can generally find bargains, many people justify over spending. If you spend on items that you will never use, it defeats the purpose of saving money on other items. This also means that you shouldn't fall for high pressure sales tactics. Don't let the owner talk you into buying something that you don't need, want, or cannot afford.

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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mama_rhapsody (405) 28 Aug 2006 03:11 PM

I went to a garage sale the other day, got four 0-3m outfits along with a long sleeve fluffy coat, she was asking .50/item + $1 for the fluffy coat. I was suprised when she only charged me $1 total! I didn't even have to bargain!