"The early bird does get the worm, or in this case, the best selection," LaPedis says. Show up 30 minutes before a sale is scheduled to open, he says. If the seller is still putting items out, offer to help in exchange for the chance to see the good stuff first.
For the best deal, arrive an hour before the yard sale ends. Things may be half-price or even less just so the seller can be rid of them. Bundling several items together and offering a flat fee for the bunch is a smart technique, LaPedis says.