Yard sales can contain a lot of items that no one really wants, but if you know how to look, you can also find some hidden treasures. In this article, you’ll find 18 things that you should snag immediately at a yard sale.
Rare Books
You must always check a yard sale for rare books. AbeBooks says that first editions are sought-after by book collectors, and a first edition is usually more valuable than a later printing. A first edition signed by the author will have even greater value.
Vintage Toys
Many people are quick to get rid of old toys that were passed down through generations because they don’t realize their value. The Collector says some of the older vintage toys are worth many tens of thousands of dollars. You must check the toy collection at a yard sale.
Old Vinyls
Cashforrecords says that old albums can be worth anywhere from $1 to $75,000. Many people chuck old vinyls into yard sales, not realizing their value. So, the next time you come across an old vinyl at a yard sale, pick it up, as it could be worth a fortune.
Vintage Furniture
Vintage furniture is sometimes overlooked at yard sales because it doesn’t look like much or because it’s bulky and awkward to transport home. But the next time you see a vintage piece, take it home, restore it, and it will add a touch of character to your home.
Vintage Gadgets
Many people don’t know what to do with old gadgets and end up throwing them into a miscellaneous pile at a yard sale. But according to LifeWire, some vintage gadgets are selling for tens of thousands of dollars at auctions. If you see one at an auction, make sure you pick it up.
Old Computers
An old computer might look like trash to the untrained eye, but many old computers are worth a lot of money nowadays. For example, Reader’s Digest says that a vintage computer, the 1971 Kenbak-1, can fetch a whopping $41,946 today. Never overlook computers at yard sales.
Unique Memorabilia
Knick knacks and bits and bobs are usually piled into yard sales and then tossed in the trash at the end of the day. But what you think might be a bit of mundane junk could actually be unique memorabilia. Look out for this the next time you go to a yard sale.
Film Projectors
Many people throw away old film projectors that were used by their grandparents because they simply don’t see the need for them anymore. But, according to Archute, the price of old film projectors can be as low as $50 or as expensive as $11,000.
Artwork
Artwork, even by lesser-known artists, is great to pick up at yard sales. These pieces of art might just need to be put in a new frame to make them come to life, enhance your home’s aesthetic, and make a nice focal point on a wall.
Clothing
Some people sell good items of clothing at yard sales simply because a button is missing. But with a little patience, one man’s trash can become another man’s treasure. Clothing from yard sales can clean up brilliantly and help liven up your wardrobe if you give it the chance.
Handmade Crafts
Yard sales can be great places to find handmade crafts such as jewelry. Although these crafts might not be worth much, they’re nice, unique additions to your wardrobe. For a one-of-a-kind look, make sure you pick up a handmade craft the next time you go to a yard sale.
Quirky Décor
People often put random décor items into yard sales when they don’t know what to do with them. But these can become statement pieces in your home that strike up conversations when visitors arrive. They can also make great centerpieces for tables and other pieces of furniture.
Instruments
Many people buy instruments and then never use them. These unused instruments often end up in yard sales. You can get really good deals on musical instruments such as guitars and keyboards at yard sales and pay just a fraction of what you would for something new.
Retro Kitchen Appliances
Some people sell old kitchen appliances at yard sales because they don’t match the style of their kitchen. But a retro appliance can make a nice focal point for your kitchen and can bring some nostalgic charm to your home. Definitely pick these appliances up at yard sales.
Uncommon Board Games
Board games are a nostalgic way to pass the time and are great for families. Picking up an uncommon board game from a yard sale can be very entertaining. These tend to be inexpensive too, so you might get a great bargain on a game that really brings the family together.
Outdoor Furniture
Outdoor furniture is often overlooked at yard sales because it’s big, bulky, and awkward to take home. But picking up a piece of furniture like this can save you a lot of money. If you see a piece of outdoor furniture at a yard sale that would suit your yard, make sure you take it home.
Mid-Century Modern Pieces
A lot of mid-century modern pieces end up in yard sales because they don’t fit the modern style of decorating that’s so common today. But taking home just one or two of these pieces can give a great, timeless vibe to your décor.
Art Supplies
If you’re an avid artist, you might be able to get some art supplies at a great price at a yard sale. People often sell these items cheaply because they don’t have time to pursue this pastime but don’t want to throw the supplies away either. CF
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