Summer time is definitely here (if you haven’t noticed) and what better time to have a yard sale than now – especially if you’re looking to sell your house and create more space for staging.
But hosting a “successful” yard sale isn’t easy. You’ve got to think like a marketer and give yourself enough time to not only prepare, but also promote within your community.
In today’s article – 5 great yard sale advertising methods – we’ll teach you how to market your yard sale like a pro. If you’re a seller, who knows, with all the hard work advertising, you might even get a few interested buyers!
1. Street Signs
For a yard sale to be successful, you MUST have more than one yard sign. Use the same material on every sign to keep visual consistency, and make sure to write in large letters, add arrows, and put an address, and, most of all, keep it simple! Place the signs (we recommend 4-5) in highly trafficked areas 1-2 days before the event (and the day of, of course!).
2. Social Media
Using social media platforms like Facebook to advertising your yard sale will dramatically improve turnout. Create an album on Facebook with some highly desirable items, and post a photo on your wall once a day to build anticipation. Be sure to include prices, dimensions, and information worth noting about the object (e.g. signed Michael Jackson poster, 11″ x 17″, Purchased in 1998 and has had a single owner, $600).
3. City Paper
Okay, this is the classic technique, but the easiest. Create a simple ad with the location, date / time, and items that will be at your yard sale. Then, submit it to run in your local newspaper (and online version if applicable) for 5-7 days leading up to the sale. If you are feeling extra motivated to sell, advertise in the paper of a nearby city / town – there are some yard sale nuts out there, let us not forget!
4. Craigslist
Welcome to the 21st century of yard sale marketing. Craigslist makes it so easy to create a listing – full with images, text, address, directions, and more. Also, you can publish your listing for free, why not take advantage of that!? When creating your post, be sure to include high-quality pictures and a full list of items with prices. You may have to renew your ad once or twice.
5. Community
Take time to create an 8.5″ x 11″ flyer to post ALL over town. Places include coffee shops, barber / stylist shops, grocery stores, schools, religious institutions and more. Ask your local Rotary or Kiwanis chapter to put a plug in for you!
Conclusion
Profit and intentions should be what direct your yard sale. If you selling cars, boats, and rare items, spending time to advertise using the methods above are sure to pay off. If what you are selling is small (e.g. figurines, cloths, kids toys), using free marketing and advertising tools may be the best way to go. If selling your home is part of the reason you’re hosting a yard sale, doing so may just real your buyer in!
