How to Shop at an Antique Fair or Flea Market

These fairs and exhibitions offer the opportunity to view the wares of hundreds of dealers from all across the country in one location. Go with a partner and a plan.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Comfortable Shoes
• Snacks
• Snacks
• Bags
• Rolling carts

1. Make a list. It's easy to get distracted by all the wonderful antiques and collectibles on display. Set some priorities so you won't waste precious time.

2. Decide how much you're willing to pay for items on your wish list. A quick Internet search will reveal what similar items are selling for. Figure at least one splurge item into your budget, to award yourself for being in the right place at the right time.

3. Get there early, because the best items are snatched up quickly. The serious shoppers will be waiting at the gate when it opens. Find out if the event offers a preview party. You will pay to get in, but you'll see the best material.

4. Be prepared. Take a bag or a rolling cart to put purchases in so you can keep shopping. If you're buying furniture, bring blankets, ropes and a vehicle that will enable you to transport the item safely home. Take a partner. Two people can cover more ground than one. Some high-tech shoppers use two-way radios to stay in touch.

5. Bring your own bottled water and munchies. Even though concession stands may be available, you don't want to have to fight the crowd or spend precious shopping minutes standing in line.

6. Wear comfortable walking shoes so you can be on your feet all day and navigate uneven ground. If the market is held outdoors, bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

7. Bring cash, credit cards and your checkbook. Different dealers accept different forms of payment. Dealing in cash can sometimes land a better price for an item.

8. Ask for what you want. If a dealer has items similar to but not exactly like the ones you're looking for, there's a chance he or she may have just what you want back home in the shop.

9. Make quick decisions. Few dealers will hold an item while you take time to think about it. They're at the fair to sell, sell, sell.

10. Ask dealers if they are open to trading or purchasing the items you bring to the show. Grab a business card for later contact.

11. Ask if a dealer will take less for a blemished or flawed item. The worst that can happen is that he or she will say no.

Tips & Warnings

• Search antiquing newspapers and magazines for listings of antique fairs in your area and beyond.
• One of the largest antique fairs is Nashville's Heart of Country Antiques Show (heartofcountry.com), which is held each February and October.
• Most large shows offer a map of exhibitors and the types of merchandise they sell. Get one to help focus your shopping efforts.
• These are some hot items to look for: vintage cookbooks and '50s kitchenware, and anything for the garden.
• Big shows bring out large numbers of shoppers. Find a landmark that will help you remember where you parked, or tie a ribbon to your car antenna so you can find it in the lot.