10 Ways to Score Big at a Yard Sale

Before you leave your house, think about the items you're hoping to bring home. Are you angling for a vintage sideboard for your dining room? Break out a tape measure to get an idea of the height and depth that you need. Do you have a blank space on your living room wall? Estimate what size painting will fit. Don't forget to bring your tape measure with you when you hit the sales. Once you have an idea what you want, pack some small bills for payment (think ones and fives) and some reusable bags to help you carry your finds.

Related: 10 Tips for a Money-Making, Hassle-Free Yard Sale

Yard sales are a great places to score dishes, picture frames, tools, costume jewelry, and kids' clothing and toys. They can also be excellent resources for finding lightly used appliances or lighting fixtures. Before you buy any electronic item, however, don't be afraid to ask to plug it into an outlet to confirm that it still works.

Related: The 10 Best Things to Buy Secondhand

A good price isn't the only thing to consider before you take an item home; it pays to weigh the risks as well. Skip secondhand mattresses unless you're willing to chance a bed bug infestation. You'll also probably want to avoid anything with heavy upholstery, such as couches and armchairs, to be on the safe side. Even more important, do your homework before you buy baby items like strollers or high chairs. Find the model name or number, and do a quick search on your phone to make sure the item meets current safety regulations and hasn't been recalled by the manufacturer.

Related: 10 Safety Essentials That Most Homes Are Missing

Pick out one or two items you like most and group them with some less exciting things. If you're willing to take several items off a seller's hands, he may be eager to give you a bulk deal so he can move more inventory quickly. 

Related:  10 Best Flea Markets for Cool Old Finds

Most of us aren't professional antiques hunters, but if, all the same, you're hoping to find something that will land you on an episode of Antiques Roadshow, download the eBay or WorthPoint app on your phone to look up a particular find. Even if you're not looking to resell, it's a good way to double-check that the item you love is fairly priced.

Related: 16 New Things You Can Do with Old Furniture

With these tips in the back of your mind, you’ll be sure to find some great steals at yard sales this year.

For the handy home improver, few pleasures compare to the joy of a well-stocked workshop. Take a look at this roundup of some of the best and most essential tools for DIYers of every stripe, and see which items might be missing from your own home improvement headquarters.