Get Garage Sale Savvy

Every year more than 60 million people attend neighborhood garage sales. Americans clean out closets, garages and storage spaces with the same goal in mind-to get rid of unused items and make money. According to the experts at HGTV, 30 percent of the stuff you're planning to sell are things you bought on sale or are old wedding gifts you never opened.

Whether it is clothing, furniture, or toys, there are several things you can do to make your big day run smoothly and end profitably. Beverly DeJulio, host of the PBS series "HandyMa'am," offers some simple tips sure to make your next yard sale a neighborhood success:

Spread the Word
Start by placing an ad in the paper mentioning the date, time, and full address of your sale. Highlight key items such as a gas grill, kitchen furniture, or baby clothing. Garage sale signs are also important-you get 2 free garage sale signs when you run your ad in the Waukon Standard - just ask for your signs! Make them large and visible, placing them in high traffic areas such as your front yard and street corners. Hang flyers on supermarket bulletin boards a week before and alert your neighbors. Remember to take down all signs after the sale is over.
Start Scrubbing
Make sure all items for sale are sparkling clean. There are many products on the market that can help make items seem brand new. A new favorite is OxiClean Stain Remover - great for spot cleaning old rugs, spiffing up upholstery, and removing odors and messes.

Sell Like a Store
Make it easy for shoppers by setting up your sale like a store. Begin by setting up tables and items the evening before and be ready for early birds who want first crack at your treasures. Group like items together-place small items such as hair accessories and craft supplies, in a clear plastic bag and mark with a price tag. Plug in electronics so people know they work and place batteries in battery operated items. Tape instructions and owner's manuals to items.
Donate leftover items - you've spent a lot of time cleaning out your home and don't want to move those items back into the home.
More valuable tips and expert advice can be found on Beverly DeJulio's "HandyMa'am" Web site, www.handymaam.tv and by visiting www.OxiClean.com.