Yard sale season is here! Whether you call it a garage sale, estate sale, or tag sale, spring and summer bring the perfect weather for clearing out clutter and making some extra cash. If you're in the Northeast, once the air warms up and schools let out, yard sales kick into high gear. As a Professional Organizer with nearly two decades of experience, I've helped countless homeowners declutter, organize, and run successful sales. That’s why I created The Complete Yard Sale Planner and Printables—a step-by-step guide with all the tools you need to plan, organize, and execute a profitable yard sale with ease.

Should You Have a Yard Sale?

Before you dive in, consider the two main goals of a yard sale:

  • Get rid of items you no longer need
  • Make some extra money

Unless you’re a professional antique dealer or estate sale expert, your top priority should be decluttering your home efficiently. Making some extra cash is a bonus. However, yard sales take considerable effort—so make sure it’s worth your time!Ask yourself:

  • Do you have enough quality items that will attract buyers?
  • Can you price items realistically (usually about one-third of the original price)?
  • Do you have time and energy to organize, advertise, and run the sale?
  • Would selling larger items on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or consignment be a better option?

If you’re ready to tackle a sale, let’s dive into the steps to maximize your success!

Step 1: Declutter Your Space

A yard sale is only successful if you have a variety of items to sell. Start by decluttering key areas:

  • Garage and basement
  • Attic and storage closets
  • Kids’ rooms and playrooms
  • Kitchen cabinets and pantry
  • Home office and bookshelves
  • Clothing, shoes, and accessories

Use my printable sorting labels to organize items into categories:

  • Sell
  • Donate
  • Keep
  • Recycle
  • Trash
  • Repair

Pro Tip: Move donations to your car immediately and schedule a drop-off to avoid second-guessing your decisions. Keep donation receipts for tax deductions!

Step 2: Plan Your Sale

A successful yard sale requires preparation. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Pick a Date: Choose a Saturday or Sunday morning—early shoppers get the best deals!
  • Gather Supplies: Tables, chairs, price stickers, cash box, bags for customers, and a calculator.
  • Advertise Effectively: Place signs at major intersections and post on Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, and Craigslist. Use my printable signs to grab attention!
  • Get Help: Ask family or friends to assist with set-up, sales, and clean-up.

Step 3: Advertise for Maximum Sales

Promotion is key! Use my printable marketing materials to spread the word:

  • Bold, easy-to-read yard sale signs
  • Directional signs with arrows to guide buyers
  • Pre-made ad templates for social media

Pro Tip: Mention big-ticket items in your ads—furniture, baby gear, electronics, and tools attract more buyers!

Step 4: Set Up Your Sale for Success

  • Organize Your Items: Group similar items together—clothing, kitchenware, toys, books, etc.
  • Use Clear Pricing: Buyers love visible prices! My printable price tags make labeling easy.
  • Create a Secure Checkout Area: Have plenty of change, a cash box, and mobile payment options like Venmo or PayPal.
  • Mark Parking Areas: Keep traffic organized with my printable parking signs.

Pro Tip: Plan ahead for meals! A slow cooker meal ensures you have dinner ready after a long day.

Step 5: Wrap Up and Enjoy Clutter-Free Living!

When your sale ends:

  • Donate leftovers immediately—schedule a pickup or drop-off to a local charity.
  • Put large items on the curb with a "FREE" sign—many will disappear overnight!
  • Count your earnings and enjoy your clutter-free home!

Ready to Make Your Sale Effortless?

My Complete Yard Sale Planner and Printables includes everything you need:

  • Sorting labels for decluttering
  • Step-by-step timeline and checklist
  • Printable yard sale signs and pricing tags
  • Advertising templates for social media
  • Tips for organizing, setting up, and maximizing profits

Get instant access today and take the stress out of your yard sale!  Download Now

Happy Organizing!Kristin Vander Wiede Owner, Livable Solutions Professional Organizing & Life’s Lists Printables