Bargain Hunting: Get the Best Deal at a Yard Sale

Katie recently posted about the thrill of uncovering hidden gems at your local neighborhood yard sale.   And, as summer yard sales are in full swing, I'm going to give you a few simple steps that can help you get the best deal on yard sale treasures.

First, plan your route in advance. Look for signs in the neighborhood and ads in the paper in the days prior to your planned shopping. Arrange your schedule so you hit each sales as close to opening as possible. When several sales open at once, give priority to those that advertise items in which you're interested. Arriving early gives you the best selection, though it may be harder to bargain.

At the sale, it's okay to carry around items you like, but don't get overly excited. When the seller knows you (or your kids) desperately want something, you may decrease your negotiating power. Also, group several items together for negotiating and make an offer on the lot. The seller may be willing to give a bigger discount for a large purchase.

Before discussing price with the seller, know your bottom line. A small notepad can help you remember the maximum you're willing to pay for each item or the total purchase. Once you're ready, approach the seller when he or she is not busy with another customer. Make an offer for your group of items that is fair but leaves room for negotiation. If it's accepted, you got an awesome deal. If not, consider the seller's counteroffer and repeat the process. Keep the conversation polite.

If you and the seller can't agree on a price, consider how much you really want or need the item in question, and decide whether you want to hold your ground or just shell out the extra money (here's where your predetermined maximum comes into play). Complete the sale on anything that can be agreed upon, and ask the seller to call you later in the day or weekend if the unresolved item is unsold and he or she wants to reduce the price. Many sellers would rather cut a last minute deal than haul an item back into the garage or donate it. This also makes stopping by sales at the end of the day a good idea just to see what's left.

Yard sale bargains can be a good way to stretch your budget for items like kids' clothing, dishes, sports equipment, books, home décor, and more. The key to success is to know what you are willing to spend and being prepared to haggle as needed.

What's your secret for scoring great deals at a garage or yard sales? Let me know in the comments!

Rebecca Dale is a business teacher, avid couponer, and mom to two little boys. Her goal is to continually reduce household expenses using those savings to invest in family fun and save for the future. Savings.com lets her share deals with others as well as find deals for herself and family.