Make big bucks at your next yard sale

Spread the word

You've set the stage; now lure customers to your sale with attention-grabbing advertisements.

Put up bold signs. On neon poster board, write "Yard Sale," your street address, the day and the time of the event in thick, black letters. Place the posters up at major intersections. (Remember to take down all signs afterward or you may be fined.)

Post fliers. Go into more detail on fliers: Mention popular items and brands you're selling. Buzzwords like "vintage" also attract customers. Tack fliers onto your town's bulletin boards.

Promote it. A classified ad in your local newspaper is a great way to drum up business. Time the ad so it appears two days beforehand. Costs are usually minimal: Call your local paper to check.

Use the Internet. Post details about your sale on community Web sites or message boards, as well as sites with larger audiences, like craigslist.org or yardsalesearch.com. Make a short video showing interesting items you're selling, and you can even advertise on YouTube.

Attract attention. The day of the sale, tie balloons or flags to your mailbox and any signs you have posted. Snag passers-by by placing eye-catching products, like furniture or a big stuffed animal, in front of your house, near the curb.

Source: Chris Heiska, Lusby, Md., yard-sale "addict" and founder of yardsalequeen.com.

Remember: A penny saved is a penny earned. See how to spend less and save more.

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