Pricing is the hardest part of a garage sale. Too high and buyers walk away; too low and you leave money on the table. Most experienced sellers use simple percentages of the original price.
The rule of thumb
Used items at a garage or yard sale typically sell for 10 to 30% of their retail price:
| Condition | Share of price new |
|---|---|
| New with tags or in the box | about 50% |
| Like new | about 30% |
| Good, light wear | about 20% |
| Fair, visible wear | about 10% |
A $40 item in good condition: 40 × 20% = $8. The calculator rounds small prices to the nearest quarter and larger ones to the nearest dollar.
Buyers expect to haggle. Marking items about 25% higher ($10) and being ready to go about 25% lower ($6) leaves room for a deal that pleases both sides.
What sells, and for how much
- Kids’ clothes, toys and baby gear sell well, but cheaply: often $1 to $5.
- Furniture, tools and outdoor equipment bring the best prices.
- Electronics should be shown to work; have an outlet or batteries ready.
- Collectibles, designer items and antiques can be worth far more than the rule; look up recent sold prices online before marking them.
- Books, DVDs and clothing move best with a simple flat price, such as $1 each or a “fill a bag” deal.
Estimating your takings
takings = items × average price × share sold − costs
With 150 items at an average of $3 and 60% sold, minus $20 for signs and any permit: 150 × 3 × 0.6 − 20 = $250. Many sellers cut prices in half in the last hours to clear what is left.
Tips for a better sale
- Price everything with stickers or group tables by price; unpriced items stall buyers.
- Advertise online and with clear signs, and check whether your town requires a permit.
- Start early on a weekend morning; serious buyers come first.
- Have small bills and coins, and accept payment apps if you are comfortable.
- Plan where unsold items go, such as a donation pickup the next day.