The Return of the Yard Sale

By Kyle Beard

ORLANDO, Fla. — Yard sales or garage sales — whichever term you prefer — are largely an American tradition during the Spring months. They are often associated with the turn in the weather and an opportunity to get rid of excess junk for Spring-cleaning.

However, this year, there is a different theme behind pushing all of that stuff out onto the lawn.

“We’re just trying to put a few extra bucks in our pocket” said Troy Lancaster, yard sale proprietor and east Orlando resident.

In the midst of economic recession and a need for many Central Floridians save every penny, yard sales are becoming increasingly popular. More than 100 different ads popped up in Orlando on the weekend of April 25 alone.

“The idea is still getting rid of junk that just takes up space,” said Lancaster “it certainly doesn’t hurt to put a few bucks in our pockets at the same time, though.”

The theory goes both ways. While the proprietors feel the increasing need to sell it, neighbors are feeling the same pressure to buy it. In the same way, people are searching for cheap deals in order to save.

“I’m looking for baby clothes,” said Linda Delgado, a 21-year-old Orlando resident and yard sale browser.

The increased popularity is clearly visible. Lancaster’s sale boasted more than 15 shoppers at a time — at one point even congesting the street due to cars parked alongside the road.

After the integration of the Internet into most homes, many neighborhoods saw their yard sales all but disappear. The convenience allowed for penny-savers to simply log into auction Web sites such as Ebay.com.

“Some folks prefer to do it the old-fashioned way,” said Anne Draper, 58, a yard sale veteran and self-proclaimed expert. “I personally appreciate the community involved.”

Community still seems to be the main theme, however it cannot be denied that the popularity of the yard sale is due in part to a struggling economy.

“This is a way for us to get together and help each other out,” said Draper “we can do our own part in picking up our feet and getting past these depressing times.”