Where to Find Antiques at Wholesale Prices

Working part-time as an antique broker for over 10 years left me with a lifetime of knowledge in the antique industry that I would like to share with you. The most common asked question I received was, where do you find affordable antiques that you can resale for profit. The truth is, there isn't any one place that you can load up on antiques to resale. In order to be an antique dealer you must be willing to search for the bargains. After all, the treasure hunt is half the fun. I have list the top five places that you can find treasures below market value that can be profitable to resale.

Flea Markets

Flea market dealers are out to make a buck, and most of them know what they have, and it's value. However check to see when your flea market is having "yard sale" days, or check to see where your closest outdoor flea market is. You want to avoid indoor flea markets, due to the cost of space rental, dealers in these booths want top dollar. Instead look for once a month dealers looking for some quick cash in an outdoor booth. And never pay asking price.

Yard Sales

Yard sales are great places to find treasures. If the person hosting the yard sale gets wind that your a dealer, they will not want to lower the prices. Start by finding a few cheap things like stuffed animals or something that you can pick up for a quarter or two. Then go for the real deals. If you see something setting in the yard that you like, like a vintage planter, ask if it's for sale (even though you know it isn't), and make an offer. The best yard sales are those held by middle to lower income families. It is best to avoid upper class neighborhoods, they usually know what they have, and want top dollar.

Thrift Stores

You can still find great vintage items, and antiques at thrift stores if you shop around. Most thrift stores know larger antiques, but miss the smaller stuff. You can find glassware, vintage toys, cut / pressed glass, sterling silverware, vases / planters, cast iron and more if you have a keen eye. I have found that charity thrift stores are the best for finding hidden treasures. The best time to bargain shop at thrift store is Tuesday - Thursday. During the weekends, thrift stores are swamped, and they usually don't put out new merchandise until Mondays afternoons, or Tuesday morning.

Estate Sales

Estate sales are a good place to find treasure if it isn't claimed already! There are more then enough companies out there with experienced brokers willing to price, and run your estate sale. If you walk in and see everything is categorized, and is professionally set up complete with a register, don't waste your time. The best stuff is already gone, and everything else is priced to high to resale for a profit. Moving sales are also a great way to find larger pieces that people don't want to move, so don't pass them up. Moving sales are sometimes listed as estate sales. Estate and moving sales take place because someone don't want to move the stuff. With that in mind, don't be shy about counting a sticker price with a lower offer.

Auctions

Great stuff can be found at auctions! Look in your paper for local auction houses, and don't forget about online auctions. You can find amazing treasures in lots, so always take a second look at anything being offered in a box lot. You can even find deals at antique auctions, so don't pass them up either.

AS you can see there are several great places to find hidden treasures. Your not guaranteed to find something everyday, but it's always fun to look, and it's a thrill when you do. Happy hunting.