by Cindy Walker Burton

The Midwest is landlocked but I went sailing recently. No water, no boat, no problem. Landlubbers, I went garage sailing. I sailed through eight great garage sales during the annual citywide garage sale May 2nd and 3rd. It was smooth sailing all the way, stern to bow and mainsail to jib. Upon arrival at each port of call, Captain Burton dropped anchor and discovered treasures. The official garage sailor’s slogan became my reality: One person’s trash is another person’s treasure.

Blunders. According to my previous garage sailing voyages, these are common seller’s blunders: overpricing, not pricing, lack of advertising, poor signage or poorly located signage, not enough items or variety, dirty/disorganized displays, lack of parking, no change available. However, on this recent voyage, I encountered zero blunders.

Preparation. Preparation is key to successful garage sailing. Carry cash in various denominations (especially one’s). Arrive early. Dress comfortably. Map out your route in advance. Consider how you’ll transport bulky items (like furniture). Set a budget. Set your phone to silent. Don’t sail if you’re sick. Go sailing when the weather’s inclement because that factor alone will deter other sailors and lessen the competition. Ensure your gas tank and your heart is full.

Strategies. Incorporate smart strategies for savvy sailing. Inspect items for wear and tear, scratches, holes, missing pieces, odors, and stains. Ensure the item works (plug it in). Take your time. Negotiate prices. Ask about bundling vice paying individually (bundling isn’t just for insurance). Ask questions (how old, what size, can I try it on). Return to the SOS (scene of the sale) shortly before it ends for last minute markdowns and freebies.

Etiquette. Employ courteous garage sailing etiquette. Don’t block the driveway or park on the grass. Greet the seller. Refrain from insulting or belittling the sale items and the seller. Put items back where you found them if you don’t purchase them. Give fellow sailors their space. Thank the seller when you depart. If it’s an exceptional garage sale, spread the word.

Dividends. Garage sales are rich in dividends. You benefit and likewise the seller. You save money selecting pre-owned and pre-loved versus new. The seller thanked you, your wallet is thanking you, and you’re thanking yourself. That’s known as thanky-panky. The 4 R’s are in action: recycle, reuse, repurpose, rejoice. It’s a win-win and a grin-grin.

Slogans. I must share these groovy garage sale slogans. Being thrifty is nifty. Nothing haunts you like what you didn’t buy at a garage sale. Not all who wander are lost: they’re looking for garage sales. Put someone else’s junk in your trunk. Life is like a garage sale: you never know what you’re gonna get. Why is the garage never for sale at a garage sale?

Sellers. I researched best sellers, worst sellers and never sellers. Best Sellers: furniture, jewelry, tools, baby items, books, vintage, collectibles and antiques. Worst Sellers: used toiletries & used makeup, outdated electronics, VHS and cassette tapes, dictionaries, socks, coffee cups, and travel souvenirs. Never Sellers: underwear, rusty or broken items, toilets.

I recorded two major regrets in my captain’s log. 1. Not snatching up a vintage domed metal lunchbox with metal handle and twin latches. I fondly remember those nostalgic collectibles from my 1960’s childhood. 2. Not buying the shiny red Radio Flyer children’s wagon (perfect condition with plastic backrest) for only $40. It retails new for $110 or more.

Ahoy sailors! All hands on deck! There are cheap treasures to reap and keep. Sales to explore and bargains to score. Spirits to lift as you sift and thrift. Trash to treasure beyond measure. Deals to seal. Sail away!