What's the best way to have a yard/garage/furniture sale?

I've had lots of yard sales and have never once got a permit. I don't know how strict your city is, but I've never got in trouble. I figured I'd just "play dumb" if anyone came to cite me, but it has never happened (and I've had sales in many different cities). I think it's ridiculous to charge people to have a garage sale.

I've never advertised in a paper ... I just put up bright neon poster board signs on all of the major intersections near my house. If your house is difficult to find, make sure you put signs up leading to your house.

It's best to have one when the weather is nice.

Organize your stuff nicely and price everything. Borrow tables from your neighbors if necessary. There's nothing worse than going to a garage sale where nothing is priced. And price it low ... you want to get rid of the stuff. If people walk up and you have high prices, they'll walk away. If you have low prices ... they'll stay and buy lots and lots.

If you feel like you really do need a permit, then contact city hall.

If you itemize on your income taxes, don't forget to get a receipt for all of the items that don't sell that you end up giving to charity. Many places (Salvation Army, Disabled Veterans of America, etc.) will come to your house to pick up the stuff.

Good Luck ... hope you make lots of money!