June Wood knows that the best thing you’ll find at a garage sale isn’t a terrific bargain. It’s the connections you’ll make on every corner. Wood, a musician, has busked at Ottawa’s biggest annual street sale, the Great Glebe Garage Sale (GGGS), for the last two years. As thousands of people visited hundreds of homes, Wood noted: “The people that seemed to be having the best time were those going around with other people.”
Forget the Frugal Finds
Wood says to forget about the frugal finds. “It’s a sense of community that makes yard sales so special.” Whether you’re treasure hunting, hosting a small sale, or organizing a big one for your entire neighbourhood, keep these tips from GGGS experts in mind to make the day as fun and fruitful as possible.
Early Bird Gets the Worm
Eric Stinson has observed some epic yard sales from his home in the Glebe. He reminds everyone that the cardinal rule of garage sales is that the early birds get the worms. They also, it seems, get the parking spaces. “Come early, perhaps park in the city parking lot, the streets are hard to navigate,” he advises. An early start is essential for sellers as well. Setting up always seems to take more time than you expect. Give yourself some extra breathing room by pricing items the night before.
Come with a Plan
Bob Brault is another Glebe resident with years of experience observing the event. He knows that you can find just about anything at a good community yard sale. “There are always good deals for items all families can use, such as bicycles, sporting goods, kids’ clothing, dishes and numerous other household items.” To avoid being overwhelmed, make a plan and stick to it. Don’t be afraid to ask around if you’re after a certain item and make a point of visiting charitable organizations that often set up shop at community yard sales, where eagle-eyed volunteers are on hand to help.
Peter Johansen has volunteered for years at Abbotsford House (which serves seniors) at several Great Glebe Garage Sales. He shares: “If you’re looking for specific items, from used books to elegant crystal vases, ask volunteers. Staff at the reception desk will know where to direct you.”
Flex Your Muscles
Finding hidden treasures is one thing, but getting them back to your car is another. Backpacks, carrier bags, wagons, and collapsible carts will make your mission easier. Bungee cords, duct tape, and rope all come in handy if you know that odd-shaped items are on your list. If you’re a seller, use your yard sale as an excuse to clean out that giant “bag of bags” currently sitting in your mudroom, as well as all those odd-sized pieces of leftover bubble wrap from Christmas. Happy customers and a clean closet, all at the same time!
Remember, Cash Is King
There’s no denying that cash is king at sales. Johansen shares: “Bring lots of change and small bills. Charities don’t keep a ton of change, and exact payment means a lot.” Sarah Tait, owner of Fabrick Collective, a thrift shop for kids, believes it’s not just families and charities that are busy at yard sales—small businesses love them too.
