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.

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

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, then 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 of your sale to guide customers to your sale. (Check local ordinances regarding sign postings first).
  
  
• Ask your GMAC Real Estate sales professional about the availability of attractive, functional garage sale signs.

Success on sale day

• Have plenty of change available -- $1 and $5 bills and at least $5 in change should cover everything.
  
  
• Ask your 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 give you a break