Resale sees boost in down economy

By Graison Day
Parkway West High School

Garage sales and resale stores are now a part of life for many Americans, more than before because of the struggling economy. Buyers are in a tight spot money-wise, and buying used items is not uncommon.

Diana Encarnacion, a manager for a Goodwill store on Clayton Road, said her store's revenue has jumped because of the increasing number of customers and the amounts they are spending. She also said those with children usually spend more than those without.

One shopper from the local garage sales held in Clifton Heights, said she goes to garage sales often to buy clothes and other things for cheaper prices than if she were to go to a department store. She spends about $30 on average at garage sales, and goes three times a month, a routine she has been following for the past three years. She said that she is "what you call poor,” adding that she was once homeless, so going to garage sales instead of buying brand new clothes is nothing new to her.

Although many shoppers hit resale stores more often now, it doesn't change anything for garage sale folks. Several say they do not think much about the revenue they may get from the increasing amount of customers. Debbie Bobnette said she has garage sales to get rid of stuff and for the fun more than for the money.

"We're practically paying people to take stuff away!" she said as she poured a cup of complementary cider for one of the shoppers.

Although many people now come to garage sales and resale stores because of the economy, there are still those few like Bobnette who think less about the money they are getting from selling used items and look more toward the enjoyment of having people come together.