Sunday Showcase: Tricks of the garage sale trade

Published 12:01 am Sunday, July 6, 2003

* The early bird gets the bargain. Most sellers say they do a good portion of their total business during the sale’s first hour.

* Make a plan. Study newspaper ads and map out an efficient route so you can hit more sales in less time.

* Get the picture. A quick visual scan of the layout –especially larger sales — can draw you to an item you’re looking for.

* Mind your manners. Be friendly — endearing oneself to the proprietor is a good way to break the ice, and possibly get better deals.

* Use your imagination. Can the item be fixed? Cleaned? Altered slightly to yield perfect results? Remember, you’re paying a fraction of retail.