Since 2003 the Highway 411 Yard Sale has been a bargain-shopper’s – and seller’s – best friend, and this year’s event promises more of the same.

Stretching over 250 miles through three states the 411 Yard Sale from Leeds, Alabama all the way to Knoxville, Tennessee and of course that means Cherokee County will be hosting a large part of the action.

You never know what you’ll find – so make it a point to go “treasure hunting” this week.

Here are some tips to make sure a fun – and safe – time is had by all!

Go early in the morning, as soon as the yard sales start. The good stuff goes fast.

Take plenty of cash in small bills, and take more than you think you’ll need. Most sellers won’t take checks. If you find an unexpected treasure, someone else will likely snag it while you’re hunting for a cash machine.

Plan your yard sale route  in advance to make sure you hit the best of the advertised sales. It’s a treasure hunt. Think of your route as the map where X marks the spot — or spots in this case.

Watch for yard sale signs, and take the detour if you find one pointing to an unadvertised sale nearby. Unadvertised sales don’t get as much traffic, and you might score big. You can pick up your original trail afterward.

Drive your largest vehicle or pull a trailer, especially if you’re hoping to find furniture.

Don’t be afraid to haggle when you’d like a lower price. If the seller won’t budge, swing back by later in the afternoon — when the sale is about to end and the seller is tired.

Don’t overlook pieces that just need a little cosmetic work, but beware of costly repairs that exceed the item’s worth.

Don’t head out without packing a yard sale tool kit – a collection of basic supplies to help you make smart, fast buying decisions and get your goods home safe.

Imagine how you could use items instead of getting stuck on their original purpose. For example, a piece of iron fencing makes a good headboard or pot rack. You can re-upholster chair seats with the good parts of a damaged rug, or use an old chenille bedspread as a tablecloth.

Don’t buy something if you can’t figure out how to use it. It becomes clutter instead of treasure.

For more information you can visit the official Facebook page for the 411 Yard Sale by clicking here.