Flea Market and Yard Sale Shopping Secrets
Follow These Tips for Buying the Sale Items You Want
Jul 22, 2009
As the old saying goes, one person’s trash is another one’s treasure. And sometimes one person’s trash is another person’s trash as well! It takes dedication, persistence, and a willingness to dig through the drek to find that special piece that’s out there just waiting to be found. Hunting through flea markets and sniffing out bargains is a fun, but at times tricky, activity. So here are some tips for flea market and yard sale shopping.
The Best Time to Go to Flea Markets
Great finds are the early bird’s reward. The earlier a flea market junkie can get out of bed and onto the field the better. They will be rewarded with the best selection. However, better bargains can be found later in the day as dealers and sellers are thinking about all the items they will soon have to pack up and cart back home. The best solution of course is to go early and plan to spend the whole day. In all honesty, it’s probably best to buy something when you find it, as it may not be there at the end of the day.
Making Payments at Yard Sales and Flea Markets
Everyone is used to carrying credit cards and bank debit cards these days, but when shopping at flea markets and yard sales it's best to bring plenty of cash (small bills are preferable because it’s easier for vendors to make change). While some larger flea markets will have sellers that accept credit cards, don’t assume that it will always be the case. Don’t risk losing the item because you don’t have cash. Also, bring only the amount you are willing to spend over the course of the day. It’s easy to get caught up in the shopping and spend more than you intended. Set a budget and only bring that amount of cash.
How to Negotiate a Lower Price
No matter what, never be rude to a vendor, and follow the proper etiquette. Seems obvious, right? Well it’s amazing how people will often walk up to a seller and demand a better price or point out all the flaws on a particular piece. Instead, ask a dealer if there’s any room for movement on the price, or if they would be willing to negotiate.
It’s not uncommon for a vendor to take off 10 percent or so, but don’t expect huge discounts. Sellers need to make a profit and it’s up to them how much they want to charge. When buyers push it and demand better deals it’s insulting to the seller, and it usually doesn’t work. If you don’t think the item is worth the price, don’t buy it. (Consider leaving your phone number in case the dealer finds that he or she can’t sell the item and they are willing to lower their price at a later time.)
Pay Less for a Lot More
Vendors love to sell a lot of items at once. If you’re interested in a number of items, ask for a price for the whole lot. Most sellers will give a significantly better discount if they are able to unload many items at once.
Be an Honest Buyer
If you love an item and you want to buy it, be honest with the seller. Don’t point out flaws or scratches in the hope of getting a better price. Vendors want to know that their item is going to a good home. Be honest with them and they’ll be honest with you.
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