Simple Tips For Buying at Yard Sales

Yard sales are a great way to decorate on a limited budget and to find unique gifts for family and friends you know appreciate the special thought and time that you have taken to give them a special gift.  I previously thought to give someone a " secondhand or used" item that was not purchased at a name retail store was tacky and to be avoided.  I however have always had a love of the old, the previously owned items.  For me there is the mystery of the previous owner, where and how they acquired the item and then... why they chose or had to sell it.  I have always enjoyed receiving such items, more so if the item came with a story, or as they say in the antique world, provenance.

When approaching a yard sale drive by and give an over glance of the items and how they are arranged.  If it is plastic toys you want and you see several proudly displayed then find the nearest parking spot.  Walk at a fair pace and all the time keep your eyes roving to what is displayed.  If there are not many people at the sale stop and look at a few items you may or may not be interested in.  Start a conversation with the seller.  Compliments on what they are selling, the weather, anything positive to get them  talking with you. Finally, ask about the item   you are really interested in purchasing.  Ask questions, how did they get it, what are they asking for the item.  If the price sounds fair go for it.that is buy it .  If the price is too high for you then give a counter offer.  It is best not to offer too low of a price as to not insult the seller.  More on bargaining later.  Usually a price can be agreed upon.  You are at the sale because you want to buy, the seller is there because they want to sell.  Everyone wins.

The best yard sales are those I  walk away from feeling like I got a bargain and that the seller was paid a fair price.

I would love to hear from other buyers and sellers.


http://www.whatsitworthtoyou.com 

 antiquesattheirongate.com

https://twitter.com/irongateantique