Yard sale pricing guide: what to charge for everything

The 10–30% rule

Most things sell for 10% to 30% of the new price. Like-new, still-in-the-box items sit at the top of that range; worn or dated items at the bottom. Brand names, solid wood furniture and good tools hold their value best.

Typical prices

• Clothes: $1–$3 for adults, 50¢–$2 for kids. Coats and boots $5–$15. Bag deals move clothes fast.
• Books: 50¢–$1 for paperbacks, $1–$3 for hardcovers. DVDs and CDs $1.
• Toys: $1–$5; big plastic play sets $10–$25. Clean them first — it makes a real difference.
• Kitchen: mugs and glasses 25¢–$1, small appliances $5–$15 if they work (plug them in to show they do).
• Furniture: dressers and tables $20–$75, solid wood more. Measure it and write the size on the tag.
• Tools: hand tools $1–$5, power tools 25–40% of new if they run. Tool buyers come early.
• Electronics: older items sell slowly. Price low and have an outlet nearby to prove they work.

Leave room to haggle — a little

Many shoppers expect to offer less, so price bigger items 10–20% above your bottom line. On small items, firm round prices keep the line moving.

If you'd rather not haggle, say "prices firm" in your listing, or mark items with the price you'd take.

Be honest about regular prices

If you show a "was" price, it should be what the item really sold for. A discount off a made-up price is misleading, and in Canada and the U.S. it can break advertising law for businesses.

Don't sell what you can't

Recalled products, drop-side cribs, and car seats that are expired, recalled or were in a collision shouldn't be sold at all. Check the recall list before you put out baby gear: Health Canada recalls.