How to Get Deals at a Flea Market

You can find just about anything at a flea market near you. If you're looking for furniture, collectibles, fresh produce, handmade crafts and gifts or deals on everything from spatulas to sneakers; nothing beats a flea market for bargain hunting.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Get up early. Scope out the flea market in the morning if you're looking for a more expensive item. If it isn't there, you'll have the rest of the day to do something else and if it is you can check the price and then come back later to buy. Most flea markets are only open on weekends and Sunday is usually the best day to buy. This doesn't however mean that you should buy early in the day.
2. Wait until the end of the day to buy large ticket items like furniture and collectibles. If the item is still there by close of business on Sunday, the seller will be far more motivated to give you the best deals and will usually give you a discount if you ask.
3. Bring cash. Keep cash on your person, but resist the urge to flash it. You want the seller to know how much you're willing to pay, not how much you have.
4. Know what you're buying. Flea markets are known for bargains, but they are also known for junk. If you don't know much about antique jewelry or rare comic books, don't rely on the seller to educate you on the value of your purchase. You may end up overspending on a junk item and walk right by a great deal. Do you homework if you're looking for something specific or stick to things you know.
5. Walk away. If it doesn't seem like a good deal or the vendor won't come down on the sticker price, move on. Usually, they'll call you back after you walk away and oblige, but even if they don't you still have money in your pocket and will find an even better deal somewhere else.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy some groceries. Most flea markets are also farmer's markets. It's a great opportunity to buy locally grown produce at a fraction of the cost. Buy at the end of the day to get the best deal.