Summer Project: Garage Sale

The only times we've had garage sales are when my kids have been inspired to clean out their old toys, play store, and make some money. For all the work involved, I would rather give away gently used items and recycle or toss the rest.

But if you're looking for a good summer project with the kids to teach them about work and the value of money, I came across some great advice on the web on holding garage sales. It's from the Get Rich Slowly personal finance web site, via The Consumerist.

Some of the tips are pretty straightforward —"Advertise." "Get Cash -- Get a roll of quarters, a stack of twenty-five $1 bills, and a few $5 bills." But taken all together, the 20 tips can help you and your kids put together a garage sale plan and lay out what needs to be done when and by whom.

With tech in mind, I like this tip, #10:

Make it easy for shoppers test electronic items. If you're selling electrical items, make sure you have an extension cord handy so that people can test them. No smart person is going to just take your word that your television "works great". They're going to want to see it in operation. Also, have some batteries on hand so that a prospective buyer can test that old Nintendo Gameboy for himself.

Both web sites are filled with terrific consumer and finance advice. Check them out if you haven't already.

LINKS:

A Yard Sale Checklist: Ten Tips for Garage Sale Prep [Get Rich Slowly]
How To: Have A Yard Sale [The Consumerist]