BBB Tips for Buying and Selling at Garage Sales

Hopefully the weather will cool down and stay that way. This allows many more people to go out to yard, garage and estate sales. You can find many hidden treasures at garage sales, however, BBB recommends avoiding buying certain items.

The prices are attractive and in many cases you can find something rare that you've been trying to find for years. Safety is not an issue with most things you find at a tag sale, but there are some types of products that should not be used unless you buy them new.

Regardless of the price, the list of potentially dangerous items includes bicycle and motorcycle helmets, cribs and child car seats. The problem with helmets for example, is that it is usually impossible to determine whether they are damaged or have been poorly repaired. Products for children may have been subject to a recall and not safe to use. You can check for product recalls or unsafe merchandise at the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), at (800) 638-2772, or check their website, https://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/.

BBB also cautions garage sale shoppers to carefully consider potential problems with used electronic products, computers and furniture. Although the price may make be attractive, it can be offset very quickly if there is a hidden problem and the item has to be repaired.

At the very least, plug in electronic and mechanical products to make sure they work before buying them. If the gadget runs on batteries, check the battery compartment for corrosion that may have been caused by a leaky battery. Remember, the item will be sold “As Is.”

Ask the seller for a receipt for any large ticket items, and make sure any verbal promises or guarantees are in writing. You are dealing with an individual and not a company. BBB could not file a complaint on your behalf. Use caution!

If you are holding a yard sale, beware of $20 bills. They are popular with counterfeiters, who rely on untrained sellers to unload the fake currency. Consider buying a counterfeit money detection pen. It is a small investment that can help reduce the chances of large losses.

Also make sure you obtain the proper permits from your city/county as needed. If not, you may be shut down by your local police. Make sure your property is free from debris or any potential safety hazard. Have enough people on hand to answer questions, watch all items and one specific person to handle the money.

When someone wants to pay by check, ask to see photo identification such as a driver's permit.

Finally, make your garage sale a yard or driveway sale to protect yourself from someone who may try to slip into your home unnoticed. You may want to arm your security system, even though you are right outside, as it will alert you if anyone tries to enter your home.

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