10 Items That Sell Fast at Garage Sales (and How to Price Them

Hosting a garage sale is a great way to declutter your home and earn some extra cash. But not all items sell equally well. Some categories are guaranteed crowd-pleasers that buyers actively look for. Knowing which items sell the fastest—and how to price them effectively—can help you maximize profits and reduce leftovers. Here’s a guide to the top 10 items that sell quickly at garage sales and how to price them for success.

1. Furniture

Furniture is one of the fastest-selling categories at garage sales, especially practical pieces like tables, chairs, shelves, and dressers.

• Why It Sells: Buyers are always on the hunt for affordable, gently-used furniture for their homes or DIY projects.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price at 20–30% of retail value for items in good condition.

• For damaged pieces, consider offering a discount and marketing them as “DIY projects.”

2. Tools and Equipment

Hand tools, power tools, gardening equipment, and toolboxes are always in high demand.

• Why It Sells: DIY enthusiasts and homeowners love scoring deals on functional tools.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price tools at 30–50% of retail value, depending on the condition and brand.

• Offer bundle deals (e.g., “Buy 3 tools, get 1 free”).

3. Electronics

Working electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, and kitchen gadgets sell fast, as long as they’re in good condition.

• Why It Sells: Buyers love upgrading their tech at a fraction of the retail price.

• Pricing Tips:

• Test electronics before the sale and label them as “working” or “for parts.”

• Price at 20–40% of retail value.

• Include all accessories (e.g., remotes, chargers) for added value.

4. Baby and Kids’ Items

Baby gear (strollers, high chairs, cribs) and kids’ toys, clothes, and books fly off the tables.

• Why It Sells: Parents love finding affordable items for growing children.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price clothing at $1–$3 per piece or offer bundles (e.g., “10 items for $10”).

• Large baby gear can be priced at 30–50% of retail value, depending on condition.

5. Clothing and Accessories

Adult clothing, shoes, and accessories sell well, especially brand-name items in good condition.

• Why It Sells: Shoppers look for affordable, gently-used clothes for everyday wear or specific occasions.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price most clothing at $1–$5 per piece, with higher prices for name-brand or designer items.

• Use a clearance bin for older or worn items (e.g., “Everything $0.50”).

6. Books, Movies, and Games

Paperback books, DVDs, Blu-rays, board games, and video games are always popular.

• Why It Sells: Buyers enjoy stocking up on entertainment for cheap.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price books at $0.50–$2, depending on size and condition.

• DVDs and Blu-rays can sell for $1–$3, while box sets can go for $5–$10.

• For board games, ensure all pieces are included and price at $3–$10.

7. Home Decor

Picture frames, vases, mirrors, candles, and wall art sell quickly to buyers looking to decorate on a budget.

• Why It Sells: Affordable decor is an easy way for buyers to refresh their spaces.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price smaller decor items at $1–$5.

• Larger items like mirrors or framed art can sell for $10–$30, depending on quality.

8. Outdoor and Seasonal Items

Patio furniture, gardening tools, holiday decorations, and sports gear are popular garage sale finds.

• Why It Sells: Outdoor and seasonal items are expensive new, so buyers love finding them secondhand.

• Pricing Tips:

• Lawn and patio furniture can go for 30–40% of retail value.

• Holiday decorations can be priced at $1–$10.

9. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

Cookware, dishes, utensils, blenders, and coffee makers are essentials that always sell.

• Why It Sells: Buyers often need replacements or backups for their kitchens.

• Pricing Tips:

• Price cookware and utensils at $1–$5 each.

• Small appliances should be tested beforehand and priced at 20–40% of retail value.

10. Collectibles and Vintage Items

Antiques, vinyl records, vintage clothing, and rare collectibles attract specific buyers and enthusiasts.

• Why It Sells: Collectors and vintage lovers actively seek unique items.

• Pricing Tips:

• Research the value of collectible items beforehand to avoid underpricing.

• Highlight rare or valuable pieces in your advertising to draw interested buyers.

Bonus Tips for Pricing and Selling Quickly

1. Use Bundle Deals: Encourage buyers to purchase more with offers like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” or “Fill a Bag for $10.”

2. Be Willing to Negotiate: Most buyers expect to haggle, so set prices slightly higher than your lowest acceptable amount.

3. Highlight Popular Items: Place high-demand items like furniture and electronics near the entrance to attract attention.

4. Advertise Online: Post photos of your most desirable items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to build excitement.

5. Offer Discounts Near Closing Time: Toward the end of the sale, slash prices to clear out remaining items.

Final Thoughts

Knowing what items sell fast at garage sales—and how to price them—can make your sale more profitable and stress-free. By focusing on high-demand categories like furniture, tools, electronics, and kids’ items, you’ll attract more buyers and maximize your earnings. So start decluttering, price strategically, and get ready for a successful garage sale!