If you are looking for something a little
different for your home or for yourself then flea markets provide an
alternative to shopping at retail stores. Flea markets have a little something
for everyone and the fun part is that you never know what you are going to
find!
When you decide to stroll through a flea
market you need to have a sharp eye that will be able to spot the deals and the
not-so-great deals right away. It also helps to know how to bargain because
unlike retail stores those who sell at flea markets are open to negotiating
prices and some even welcome it from there customers!
Here are some other important things to
consider as you prepare for a morning, afternoon or full day at the local flea
market:
Inspect
Everything Before Purchase
You shouldn’t have to worry about bringing
any fleas home if you have a discerning way about you! Inspect every item that interests
you carefully- very carefully. Everything you purchase from a flea market is an
as-is purchase. Check to see if any clothing shows the signs of age, plug in
all electrical items to make sure they work, check to see if all glass items
are free or cracks and scratches and so on. You cannot take an item back once
you have purchased it so make sure it is in good shape before you leave with
it.
Dress
Comfortably
Wear comfortable clothing and a comfortable
pair of walking shoes when you go to a flea market because you will be doing a
fair amount of walking. Whether the flea market is inside or outside or both
there will be lots to see and lots of ground to cover. You may find yourself bending
down to sort through boxes so you don’t want to wear anything that you are
afraid to get dirty. Make sure you bring your sunglasses as well as a hat. Too
much sun can zap your energy and it can cause lead to sunburned skin. Ouch!
Arrive
Early
If you are not an early riser on weekends
then you may wish to make an exception on the days when you want to stroll
around the local flea market. The good stuff goes fast and first so be one of
the savviest flea market shoppers by arriving early! If you arrive too late
then the selection will be less and everything will be picked over.
Make
a List
Before you head out to look for bargains and
treasures make a list of what treasures you are looking for. You do this when
you shop retail and when you shop online so why not do the same when you shop
at the flea market? When you do this then it prevents you from overspending
because impulse buying does not take place. Just make sure that you don’t leave
the list at home.
Bring
Cash in Small Bills
You will be paying in cash at the flea
market and small bills are the absolute best for this type of shopping venture.
Having $20 bills on you is good while $10 bills are even better and $5 bills
are even better. Your bargaining power is much greater if you have smaller
bills on you. As well it is easier for sellers to make change the smaller the
bills are that you hand them.
Bring
Your Own Bags
The flea market experience can be very
rewarding but the more prepared you are the better. It would be very helpful if
you brought your own bags with you. Vendors should be prepared as well with
their own bags but if they run out then you can step in with your own. Bring a
few plastic grocery bags with you or bring a reusable bag or two for your
wares.
Have some fun!
Image: winnond / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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