Fall is here and we are coming to the end of the Garage Sale season. My wife has been busy all summer and treats this time of year kind of like the postseason of NFL football. Intrigued and wanting to know more about what compels people to sift and sort through other peoples’ stuff, I recently asked my wife, a compulsive bargain hunter herself, about the art of garage sale shopping. Here’s what I discovered.
How often do you garage sale? How many stops do you make per trip?
I try to get out to the garage sales at least once a week, sometimes 2 if I am lucky. usually I’ll stop at 4-6 sales depending on the kids.
When is prime time garage sale season?
My goal is to get out in early spring. This is just after people have done their spring cleaning so there is usually lots of clothes and items people don’t want around any longer.
How much money do you spend at the average sale?
I usually have around $20 to make it through my stops. Most days I’ll end up with a few dollars left, unless there is a great deal that I can’t pass up (usually rare chance), then I will end up having to write a check. I would say somewhere between $20-$40 is the average.
What is the greatest treasure you’ve ever found at a garage sale?
That is hard to narrow down. I found a doll house with all the dolls and furniture for the house ($25) for my daughter. While I was pregnant I found a Baby Bjorn (retail $90) in great condition for $10. I’ve found brand new, brand name kids’ shoes (retail $20-$30) for $1-$2. Another treasure is all the Creative Memories stuff I’ve found. Oh man, there are too many treasures!
What is the worst thing you’ve ever seen for sale at a garage sale?
Believe it or not, I once came across a pain of stained adult underwear. I was shocked and disgusted.
What days do you find the best deals?
This depends on the area. In my old city the best deals could be found on Thursdays. Where I live now, it is Fridays. But no matter which day you go, you will want to go in the AM before all the good stuff is picked over by other shoppers.
What role do signs play in whether or not you stop?
Signs are vital! I don’t research sales online or in newspapers, so I rely completely on the signs that I see. I think some people need a reality check however on what a HUGE SALE really means. My advice, don’t believe ever sign you read.
Why do you think garage sales shopping can be so addicting?
It’s the thrill of the hunt! Just as a deer hunter or fisherman will sit for hours with nothing, driving around aimlessly until I find the “catch” makes all of the searching worth it. Plus its a warm fuzzy to know you waited for something you once wanted and now got it for a fraction of the price. I feel proud to be able to get my family some things they want because it’s so stinking cheap.
Is it OK to bargain at garage sales?
I try not to barter because things are usually priced well. However, sometimes I don’t have enough money or I think it’s way over priced so I will offer something. Otherwise, I just pay what they ask.
Aren’t garage sales really just a transfer of junk from one home to another?
Maybe for some people, but I don’t usually buy junk. Of course there is the cliche that ‘one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. ‘ I have high standards for the items I will buy. No stains, no repairs needed, new or gently used, and name brand only. It is amazing that I often times find items with the original price tags on them.
On your blog you write that buying at garage sales makes you green? Why do you think this?
Isn’t being green about finding ways to reuse our resources? I ‘m just reusing the toys, clothes, and decor other people don’t want anymore. This saves energy and resources. My husband might not agree but I think I’m pretty green.
There you have it. All the tips and tricks you need to know to mater the art of garage sale shopping. I’m taking off myself to try and find some drums and a new Optimus Prime toy for my son. Good luck and happy Garage saling!
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