Thrift stores, yard sales, flea markets and Craigslist are a few examples of resources to locate affordable secondhand goods. In the past, collectors would rummage for antiques and collectibles. However, the current economic status and a growing concern for our environment has made these even more popular choices for everyday household items.
Sadly, the market has become flooded with goods due to the surge of foreclosed homes and families being forced to liquidate their household items to pay bills or buy groceries. Regardless of your decorating taste, the opportunity to find great deals on a broad spectrum of household items has never been better.
Plan Ahead
Establish a game plan for your excursions to maximize your time and opportunity. For example, if you will be visiting multiple yard sales print out maps and instructions in the order you will be viewing them. Don’t forget to use the last sale as the reference point to the next sale, not your home address, or you will end up wasting valuable time.
Check the weather prior to departure if you will be shopping outdoors. Comfortable shoes and cushioned socks are essential for a comfortable shopping experience. Pack a raincoat, jacket, sunscreen and snacks/bottle water in your car to help prepare for most situations.
Shopping Tools
In addition to the comfort items, don’t forget to take along items that will help you investigate your finds. Those items may include a tape measure, magnet, antique value guide or smart phone(to check value of items), rope and orange tape for large items that require marking and bungee cords/blankets for hauling.
If you will be viewing items from ad at a private residence take all necessary safety precautions. It is best to take along a friend. If that is not possible, let someone know where you are going(including the exact address( and what time you are arriving. Arrange to contact them before you enter the home and immediately upon the time you leave. The news media has aired many reports about ads being used to trick individuals to remote locations.
Cash is the only form of payment that is accepted at most yard sales and flea markets. Also, remember that sales are final. If you are unable to make up your mind about an item odds are you will end up regretting that purchase.
Think Outside the Box
Think outside the box and envision ways to re-purpose or refinish interesting items. There are many items that can be used for non-traditional purposes. For example, an old watering can will sprinkle happiness all over your home when it is turned into a vase for a faux floral arrangement. Imagination and innovation are qualities that most resourceful shoppers possess.
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