The checklist.

Two weeks before

Pick a date, and check the weather forecast as it gets closer Ask the neighbors if they want to join (more houses, more buyers) Check your city or HOA rules for yard sales and signs Walk through every room, the garage and the closets, and pull out what goes

The week before

Clean and test everything that plugs in Price everything (use the price guide) Get colored dot stickers, a marker and tape Post your sale online with the date, start time and best items Make your signs

The night before

Get cash for change: small bills and coins Set out tables, blankets and a rack for clothes Put an extension cord where buyers can test electronics Charge your phone if you take card or app payments

The morning of

Put signs at every turn from the nearest busy road Big items and furniture up front, near the street Group items by type: kitchen, tools, kids, clothes Keep the money on you, not on a table

The last hour

Cut prices in half, or "fill a bag for $5" Put a free box at the curb

After the sale

Take down every sign Donate what is left, and ask for a receipt Recycle electronics and batteries at a drop-off