Good News Tucson - A Family Values Publication

HANDY TIPS:
Spring Cleaning! by Mindi Johnson

For some, the best part of spring cleaning is not the actual cleaning, but what happens to the bounty found in closets, cupboards and under the bed - a yard sale!

Often we find that the items we no longer need or use are still in very good condition. Rather than packing those items away in your garage, set them aside for a yard sale.

Preparation
After your spring cleaning is done, plan a day to price your sale items. Remember, this is not a time to be sentimental! Don't price your items based on what you think you should get for them - price them to sell!

Get the Word Out
Once you've set your date, tell your friends about your yard sell. Tell them to come early for GREAT deals! If you're comfortable, you can even post your yard sale for free on Craig's List, a classified ad listing service (Go to www.craigslist.com, click on "Arizona" then "Tucson" to get to our local page).

On the morning of your sale, put directional signs at the closest cross-streets. Be sure to make your signs big and clear to get people to head your direction.

Let It Go!
During your sale, you may be tempted to reclaim some of those "precious" items. Don't give in! Let it go! You don't want to have to find a place in your newly cleaned house for those unneeded items. And don't be greedy! If someone offers a respectable price, take it!

For the Kids
Yard sales are a great experience for kids. They can price items, help set-up the sale and collect money and make change. Set-up a small station where they can keep a box for money, a calculator and a comfortable chair.

Leftovers
At the end of your sale, you may have leftover items. Package the items in boxes or bags and deliver them to a local charity. There are many non-profit organizations here in Tucson that accept gently used, resale-able items to raise money. Check online or browse the yellow pages for an organization that you'd like to help.

Have fun!
During your sale, you'll have busy moments, but you'll also have your down times. Use that time to laugh with your kids, talk about what they'd like to do with their earnings and just have fun. With such busy lives, it's important to savor every moment we can we our children.

So, as you plan your spring cleaning, plan a yard sale, too. You'll have the benefit of a clean house and a little extra cash in your pocket!