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| Sunday, June 22, 2008 |
| Sluggish economy fuels rise in yard sales |
 The Fresno Bee reports: Sluggish economy fuels rise in yard sales Steve Treat has never been big on yard sales. Until now, he's held one, maybe two in his life. But this month alone, he's had three at this northeast Fresno home.
He had to do something to pay his bills.
Treat, a window installer, has seen a slowdown in work, and he suffered a heart attack in March. On Saturday, he put out tools, a dryer, a girl's bicycle, extension cords -- whatever odds and ends he thought might raise a buck to help him and his wife and four children get by.
"I've caught up on PG&E and utilities and paid some credit card bills," Treat said.
As the economy continues to slump, more people appear to be turning to garage and yard sales to make money for basics like gas and food. Are you noticing more garage sales in your area?Labels: Middle Class Crunch |
| posted by Boston Gal @ 9:14 PM *
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| 4 Comments: |
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Very interesting. My grandma lives in Fresno and her tri-monthly yardsales net her about $300 on top of the small amount she gets from SS. I wonder how the increased competition will impact her.
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Way more sales than usual here in KC. But the weather's been a bit cooler than usual, also. My husband and I have finished raising our kids, including the years of buying furniture for dorm rooms and first apartments. We're committed to not bringing anything into the house. However, after our daughter's wedding, we had a completely impromptu sale and sold lots of candle holders, centerpieces and other wedding decor. Eager buyers!!!
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I was in Western Mass this weekend and saw lots of signs for yard sales, but I did not stop and visit.
I have a theory that more may be interested in holding them for a combination of reasons. Yes, the extra money does come in handy now that our wallets are feeling pinched due to higher gas prices and food prices. But I also think we are spending more time in the home instead of traveling or shopping. When you hang around the house more you start to notice the projects and tackle them.
Decluttering is a big project, and knowing you can turn a buck doing the job - that just makes you more motivated to accomplish it.
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Very interesting. My grandma lives in Fresno and her tri-monthly yardsales net her about $300 on top of the small amount she gets from SS. I wonder how the increased competition will impact her.