How To Bargain at a Flea Market (A Beginners Guide)

Everyone likes a good bargain.  Flea markets offer you a chance at making a deal for items of interest.  Half the fun of shopping is being able to locate that ideal item and then bargain for it.  This article will give some suggestions.  It is sort of a beginners guide for flea market shopping.  Chelsea Zalopany of the New York Times has some great ideas.  Most are listed below.

1.  Know what you want before you go.  Most people have an idea of what they are looking for and how much they are willing to spend, before they leave.

2.  Go early.  Try to get there and look before they even open, if at all possible.  This allows you to do several things.  first, it shows that you have a strong interest for a particular item.  Second, you might get the best item available.  Third, strike that deal early.

3.  Cash is the word.  More shop owners like the idea of cash over checks are cards.  Exact change is even a better idea.

4.  Weather makes a difference.  There are less shops open on a cold day.  Many vendors are ready to strike a deal and move on.

5.  Dress like a pauper.  Shoppers with expensive clothing means money to a vendor.  Be comfortable, but very casual.  Sneakers, jeans and a sweat shirt can go a long way.

6.  Let the vendor talk and you listen.  Do not be naive but, do show some interest.  If you spot something you want, look for something else but, keep an eye on what you really want.  Show a lot of interest in the obscure item but, your goal is to get what you really want.  Ask what it would cost to add your main item to your sale.  Many times, if you are buying other items, you might get a deal on the item you really want.

7.  Do not embarrass the vendor.  Show respect when you bargain and be honest with your bargaining power.

8.  Score some vintage.  There is a lot of good to be said about old but not ancient items.  Things like pocket watches, pocket knives, lunch boxes and silver compact mirrors are great pick ups.

9.  Look underneath.  Many times heavy or damaged items are placed under tables.  Keep a close eye on these items.  They are bot hidden for a reason.

10.  Tag It.  If you purchase an item but can't move it immediately, tag it with your name, phone number and address.  Mark "Sold" on it.  You might even want them to place it at the rear of the shop or tent.

Enjoy yourself.  Remember you don't have to buy.  There is nothing wrong with being a thrift shopper either.  Keep in mind that everything has a price, but everything is for sale.

Comments (1)

Lets09 said:

	... Very helpful guide.
	report abuse vote down vote up

September 13, 2012
Votes: +0