Is your storage full of good-quality items you no longer need but that could still bring joy to someone else? Organise a courtyard flea market! It’s a pleasant way to get rid of items you no longer need and a great opportunity to get to know your neighbours.
You can organise a courtyard flea market at a SATO building. The idea is that residents can set up a sales table in the courtyard of their own building following the flea market principle.
You can bring just a few items to sell, and at a courtyard flea market you don’t need to worry about table fees, transport or other costs. The more neighbours you can encourage to join with their own tables, the more enjoyable the event will be.
Tips for organising a successful courtyard flea market
Share your plans in advance and invite your neighbours to join
When you organise a flea market in the courtyard of an apartment building, you do not need a special permit. However, always remember to inform the Service Manager of your SATO home building in advance, for example through OmaSATO.
If you want to organise a flea market in a public place instead, such as along a street or in a nearby park, you will need a permit from the city.
It’s also a good idea to talk with your neighbours before getting started. This way, as many people as possible can take part and help with the arrangements.
2. Promote the event
Inform the residents of the building and people in the surrounding area about the flea market. The event can be listed free of charge, for example at www.pihakirppis.fi, where you can also find tips and ready-made posters for promotion. Local Facebook groups and shop notice boards are also effective.
3. Organise additional activities
The event attracts more visitors when there is other programme as well. For example, you can organise a toy flea market for children, a courtyard café or other small activities.
4. Pay attention to product selection, display and pricing
Arrange the items neatly on the sales table and keep the prices realistic. Bargaining is often part of the flea market experience.
Choose items that are clean and in good condition. Think about whether you would buy a similar product in the same condition yourself.
5. Take care of cleanliness
Clean up the courtyard together after the event. When there are enough bins and responsibilities are agreed in advance, the clean-up will be quick.