This guide is just a set of guidelines for going to a garage sale and not being a total clod.
Showing up at the sale.
Parking your vehicle is your first impression. Keep it on the street, as in the blacktop. Don't park in the grass and run over a sprinkler head. Don't compact the grass. Park on one side of the road and don't block the neighbors driveway. Someone has invited you to their home, be considerate.
Make small talk.
Butter up the sellers. Comment on the weather, compliment the lawn or the house. A first impression goes a long way when it comes to negotiation. Don't come off as combative. Negative comments come off as combative. Keep it positive and people will be more likely to deal with you.
Bring small bills.
I know better than everyone that ATM's mostly have $20 bills in them. Try during the week to get singles and fives. A bit of pocket change will help as well.
Dress down.
Do not dress like you have money if you expect someone to give you a deal. If you wear high end clothes you will look like you have money, you won't get a good deal. Dress like you shop at thrift store and you play on the sympathy of the seller. No jewelry, no high end watches and no Nike shoes. You don't have to be a bum but don't wear a suit either.
Bundle.
Grab several items and haggle a better price for the entire lot. This works. Watch the TV show "American Pickers" and see. I do this all the time.
Smile.
Just do it. People like dealing with happy people rather than sour pusses.
Bottom line is this is not rocket science just a little common sense.
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