Small Spaces, Big Ideas; Tag Sales in Cities

Is it impossible to have a “physical tag sale” in a big city? Not really, but a virtual tag sale would be a lot easier. In big cities such as New York where most of the population resides in high-rise or multiple family dwellings, trying to have a garage sale could be a challenge… unless you have a big stoop! Here are some suggestions we have for you:

Relay as much information about large bulky furniture to prospective buyers as possible before they come see the item(s). This should include measurements and weight.
Coordinate with your building super or management office an appropriate move-out time so you don’t damage the building or disturb residents. If you have buyers who are amateur movers coming to pick up large furniture and they damage walls or elevator, you (the tenant) will most likely be responsible for fees and repairs.
Be helpful by having appropriate tools handy if your buyers need to dismantle anything in order to take it down stairs or fit it in an elevator.
Try to agree on a price ahead of time instead of haggling on the spot.
Use common-sense safety measures. Let the doorman know you have someone coming to your home to look at an item. The same goes for a non-attended building lobby. Have a friend with you if you don’t feel comfortable having strangers come in to your home to pick something up.

Photo of a “Stoop Sale” in New York City

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