Tips for Finding Flea Market Bargains

Separating Authentic Items from Reproductions

Buying at a flea market is a fun and inexpensive way to bring something new into your home or wardrobe without investing a lot of money. Unfortunately, technology has created a whole industry of reproductions and it can be difficult separating an authentic piece from a reproduction. Here are a few tips that can help you become a successful buyer.

Don't Buy on Impulse

Buying on impulse rarely turns out to be a bargain if you have not done your homework. Beware of a good story or a phenomenal discount that makes the price too good to be true. Sellers are appealing to your emotions in hopes of getting you to buy. Ask what justifies the price. A seller will describe all of the good points of the piece, the provenance or story behind the piece, and what other pieces like it are going for.

Learn Dates, Designers & Market Price

Learn everything you can about the things you like: when were they made, what the designer mark or signature looks like and what current market price is. Each of these things will help you negotiate a price, especially if a seller is making claims that do not line up with your findings. Remember, because the economy is soft at the moment, what sold for a thousand dollars two years ago may be worth considerably less today.

Watch Out for Fixer-Uppers

A bargain is only a bargain if you can use it. If you don't have the time, space and skills to rewire a lamp or repair a dress then you may not have saved any money. Hiring outside help to make your purchase usable is rarely a good idea. It merely adds to the price and in some instances, parts are no longer available and your bargain will only be beautiful, never functional.

Was It Really a Bargain?

At one time or another, all of us overpay for an item, but do you like the piece? Do you feel happy when you look at it, wear it or use it? Then it was probably a reasonable buy in spite of the price. Or did it spur you on to learn more so your next purchase really saved you money? Then it was an expensive lesson, but one you will always remember.

Maybe you have decided that you can't stand to have it in the house? Cut your losses. Sell it reasonably at your next yard sale or better yet, donate it to charity and let someone else find a bargain. What goes around, comes around!