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FLEA
MARKET ARTICLES INDEX
COLORADO FLEA
MARKET DIRECTORY
How to Shop the Flea
Market
Shopping at flea markets is a great way to find
everything from antiques to appliances, clothing, household goods, tools and
toys as well as unique items and save money in the process. You can do
everything from decorate your home to dressing for success all by shopping
the flea markets.
Steps:
1. Get to the flea market early as possible for the best selection or late
for best bargains.
2. Browse a few aisles first to get a feel for what is being offered, unless
you spot a must-have item such as the platter to your discontinued china!
3. Inspect items closely, checking for flaws such as cracks, poor
construction and damaged areas. Goods are generally sold as-is and few
vendors will take returns.
4. Bargain with a light touch. It's half the fun of shopping flea markets
but bargaining nicely often gets the best results. For example, a good
strategy is to ask if the price is firm instead of immediately offering half
the quoted price. Also, many vendors will give bigger discounts if you're
buying several items at once.
5. Ask and ye shall receive. Especially if you are looking for a specific
type of item, ask the sellers. Often they don't have room to put everything
out and may just have your item in the back. Also, they will often hold
bulky items until the end of the day if you have paid for them, leaving your
hands and arms free to hold smaller purchases.
6. Think creatively when shopping. New uses for old items means unique
decorative accessories: old balusters can become candlesticks or shelf
supports, anything sturdy and big enough can become a coffee table with a
sheet of glass across its top. Vintage clothing can become a chic new outfit
or a costume.
Tips:
Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing; also bring along a hooded
poncho in case of rain.
Pre-measure spaces at home that you wish to furnish. Carry this information
with you.
Be prepared with cash in a variety of small bills. Few vendors take checks,
even fewer take credit cards. A fanny pack is ideal for money and I.D.
because it leaves hands free to pick up and carry.
A tape measure and small flashlight are a good for inspecting items both to
ensure that pieces will fit in at home or that there are no structural
defects such as cracks that impair the integrity of the piece.
In a pinch remember that a dollar bill is about 6 inches long.
It's wise to bring along some blankets for wrapping furniture (leave in
vehicle) and some plastic bags for small items. Vendors usually don't offer
either bags or wrapping.
Bring along a little wagon to tow purchases.
Warnings:
Goods are sold by professionals and regular folks at flea markets, but they
are almost always as-is.
© 1999-2005 eHow, Inc. How things get done.
If you have any interesting stories or tips
about shopping at flea markets or setting up a table at a flea market please e-mail us at
CBHcontact@gmail.com. |
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