A yard sale is a relatively easy way to make an extra buck while getting rid of clutter, as long as you follow one rule: Don't assume everything is worthy of selling.
To understand why, get in the mindset of the average yard sale shopper. Basically, they want something for a "steal." Most will scoff at paying $20 for an item, even if it is technically worth $100. They also can be oddly picky about what's on offer. If, from the curb, a shopper can see an unpromising array of "junk," they'll walk (or drive) right on by.
So what's junk and what isn't? Here's a handy guide of all the junk NO ONE wants from you.
Hand-me-down records from musicals, string quartets and lounge singers
JeepersMedia/Flickr
Generally speaking: If you wouldn't pay for it in a record store, no one will buy it at your sale.
Old shoes, even if they're in pretty good shape.
EvelynGiggles/Flickr
There's the ick factor, plus the "likely to be a decade out of style" factor.
Big, heavy furniture.
Ruth and Dave/Flickr
No one wants to spend a Saturday hauling a giant sofa off of your lawn.
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Stuffed animals, old and new.
Sapocka via Getty Images
Most people will assume that these toys have seen their fair share of spills -- or worse -- bedbugs.
Tacky travel souvenirs.
Stuart Paton via Getty Images
Unless it's something so over-the-top that someone will buy as a joke gift, of course.
Your treasure trove of VHS tapes.
elaine a/Flickr
Yes, even your beloved "Buns of Steel" volumes.
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Rickety old exercise equipment.
danxoneil/Flickr
Yes to things like free weights, no to vintage exercise equipment that likely will fall apart.
Half-used bath and body products.
Jo Naylor/Flickr
You could get away with beautiful vintage perfumes if the bottle is nice enough... not the "old Bath and Body Works rip-off" collections.
Books about outdated technology.
minifig/Flickr
Second runner-up: "Best-selling" self-help books.
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Stained (or faded) plastic toys.
djwudi/Flickr
We're not begrudging anyone the Little Tykes foot-powered car of their dreams, but be very discriminating when it comes to condition.
Promotional mugs, t-shirts, glassware and totes.
AmsterdamPrinting/Flickr
If it was given out for free at an event, conference, family reunion or anniversary party, it's likely true that no one will pay for it.
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