Give yourself time to prepare

  - Select a sale date well in advance, at least two to three weeks.

  - Weekends are best, but avoid dates that conflict with holidays or special events.

  - Consider holding a joint sale with friends, neighbors or relatives to attract more customers and sell more items.

Choose what to sell

  - Scan your attic, garage, basement, closets and other storage areas for items.

  - Practical items such as appliances, furniture, dishes, books, plants kitchen utensils, antiques, toys and clothes sell best.

Price your items right

  - Visit other garage sales to get a feel for prices and be realistic when pricing your items.

  - Purchase self-adhesive tags at an office supply store and affix a tag to each item.

  - For joint sales, keep a log of items sold or mark price tags with seller's initials.

  - Be prepared to come down in price if you really want to get rid of an item.

Display to make the sale

  - Sweep and wash out your garage until it looks and smells clean.

  - Arrange display tables for easy access and viewing. Rent or borrow more tables if needed.

  - Display items that are clean and in good shape. Group items in categories like stores do.

  - Set up temporary racks and clean upholstery of sale furniture. Remove lingering odors with air freshener.

  - Provide an electrical outlet so customers can see that appliances work properly.

  - Display books, videos, record albums and CDs spine up for best readability.

  - Display odd and ends and mark them all at 25 cents, or set up a few free items to stimulate buyer interest.

Try these sales tips

  - Encourage return shoppers during a two-day sale. Post a sign saying prices will be reduced the next day.

  - Take bids on expensive items. Have customers fill out a card with their names, phone numbers and bid, then sell the item to the top bidder.

Advertise for success

  - For best results, don't skimp on advertising. Write about your best items to attract the most buyers.

  - Advertise "cash only" if that's your preference, than post a "cash only" sign at the sale.

  - Advertise in shopper newspapers. Post notices on bulletin boards in grocery stores or Laundromats.

  - Investigate free public service announcements on radio and television.

  - Post signs in visible places the day ot your sale to guide customers to your sale. (Check local ordinances regarding sign postings first.)

Success on sale day

  - Have plenty of change available - $1 and $5 bills and $5 in small change should cover everything.

  - Ask neighbors in advance not to park in front of your house on sale day. Keep your own driveway clear for extra parking.

  - Ask a friend or relative to help you take money, wait on customers or to give you a break.

For a copy of this brochure, please e-mail Dan O'Brien and request the "Fresh Ideas for your kitchen" brochure.

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