A Comprehensive Guide to Organizing a Secure and Hygienic Yard Sale

As the summer season blossoms in full grandeur, it's typical to notice a proliferation of yard sale signs ornamenting our neighborhood corners and telephone poles. Even though stay-at-home restrictions have been relaxed across most states, the uncertainty of a complete return to normalcy still lingers. Amid sporadic reports of a resurgence in coronavirus cases from various cities, it's crucial that caution remains paramount. Yet, while prioritizing safety, it's worth noting the financial and ecological advantages of hosting a yard sale. In 2018, the weekly revenue generated from yard sales across the US reached an impressive sum of $4,222,375. So, the question arises: how can we orchestrate a semblance of 'regular' life while safeguarding our communities?

Immaculate Hygiene is Key

While your household may not host anyone susceptible to illness, a visitor at your yard sale could potentially be at risk. Taking the extra step to disinfect items or launder clothes for sale will not go unnoticed. Most patrons will be conscious of their health and will appreciate your consideration. Remember, sales are likely to increase when items look clean and well-maintained. PRO TIP: Expand your cleaning perspective. Consider what people touch frequently, and whether items are being picked up and set back down. Think about your interactions with cash and cards at checkout - these are the additional items and surfaces that require periodic sanitization for optimal cleanliness.

Effective Management of Visitors

If your residence is located on a bustling street or a sizable neighborhood that could draw a multitude of shoppers, it's essential to maintain a 6-foot distance among your guests. At peak visitor periods, you might have to request guests to wait at the driveway's end or near their vehicles until the crowd reduces. Worried about disappointing your shoppers? Plan ahead! If your lawn and driveway provide ample space, you could arrange tables and displays at a considerable distance so that guests can shop safely. Signs that promote social distancing or cordoned-off sections can serve as valuable reminders. Remember, while some people are comfortable wearing masks, not all of your guests may share the same sentiment or be able to do so. Hence, enforcing social distancing could be more feasible than mandating masks.

Essentials for a Thoughtful Host

Preparations for your yard sale may have been underway for months, while for some of your shoppers, this might be their first excursion in several months. They may forget their masks or not have washed their hands after touching multiple items. Anticipate your guests' needs and provide necessary resources. Here are a few items you could consider offering:

• Disposable gloves
• Unused masks
• Hand sanitizer
• Packaged water and snacks (avoid homemade treats, which are usually provided)
• Contactless payment methods

If these items don't fit your budget, but you still want your guests to come equipped, be sure to include this information on your signs and online posts. Avoid disappointing large groups of visitors just because they forgot their mask.

Transparency is Paramount

Honesty with your shoppers is crucial. If you're uncomfortable hosting large groups, be clear about it from the start. If you're contemplating postponing your yard sale, you might find that customers are more inclined to peruse and purchase once all states are entirely open. For more information about safety measures, consult the CDC's recommendations.

At CrossCountry Mortgage, we have more than just a cursory understanding of yard sales; our expertise lies in home sales. Contact us today to connect with a Mortgage Advisor.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or mortgage advice. Loan programs, rates, and guidelines may change at any time. All loans are subject to credit approval and underwriting. For guidance tailored to your situation, consult a licensed mortgage professional.