The Art of Successful Shopping at Yard Sales

Whether you are a novice, or a weekly regular of Yard sales, it never hurts to step back and freshen up on your skills every so often. Everyone likes to find bargains, especially tripping onto collectibles or antiques that are hidden in an out of the way garage sale or moving sale. There's nothing better than to find something that could be sold to a seasoned collector, or dealer of antiques at a large profit. All 'Yard Salers' far and wide long to find these catches in their weekly trips. And if not a collectible piece of artwork or exquisite piece of jewelry that could be sold, then at least a good treasure for your own house.

Collectible antiques are those objects of decor which have stood the test of time throughout history, such as silver goblets, commemorative furniture, Native American artifacts, Depression Glass, and are at least 100 years old. Be aware that many dealers nowadays list antique collectibles at 80 years, so if you are searching strictly for these as an investment, it is wise to purchase a good book for reference that you can carry with you. Any book store will have collectors books in stock from $19.95 to over $100. You only need an inexpensive, but complete one to carry out to your Yard Sales. This will save you from picking up something worthless, even if it had the earmarks of an antique.

The question is "How do I find the pieces that will accent my home and add or start my collection, while keeping the prices affordable?"

There are a few tips to consider on your journeys. Keep your eyes wide open when going from sale to sale! We've all heard stories of someone finding a Picasso painting at a Garage Sale and for $5.00....... and then re-selling it for $200!! This can happen! And it could happen to you! Look where nobody else seems to be looking and dig deeper in the box than the others customers. Ask questions of the people having the sale; it is their property - they know it the best. The general public does not know the value of merchandise. Even if you're not so sure either, keep your eyes and ears open. You're not going to find collectible antiques and great finds if you just skim over the 'top' of the merchandise.

Another good tip is to go to auctions. Just Go. Register and get your paddle number - it doesn't cost a penny, and you can see what is being offered. Getting familiar with your local auction house will improve your eye to what is out there and the prices that the public is paying. Besides, it's a Great way to spend a Saturday afternoon and is alot of fun!!!

Make it a point to visit Flea Markets, and other venues often. They are continually turning new inventory and are likely to tell you when merchandise is coming in and other little secrets if your face is familiar to them. Be knowledgeable about whatever you are shopping for, if anything in particular, so that you will be able to identify it when you see it - even buried under 3 coats of paint and varnish.

Go to the library, look on the computer, go to museums and get information.

Above all, enjoy your travels and the people you meet. The local newspaper can be invaluable in your planning. You can map out the days' sales, check on auction times, find discontinued sales from warehouses or businesses, all advertised in the newspaper. You will find the best antique collectibles at affordable prices with very little effort and just a minimal of planning. The important thing to remember is to have fun as you find some great collectible or treasured items for your own.