Things You'll Need:
- Water
- Snacks
- Comfortable shoes
- Hat
- Flashlight
- Tape measure
- Magnet
- Magnifying glass
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Step 1
Do your research.
a: Find out which markets sell the items you're likely to buy.
b: Find out what time the sellers set up. -
Step 2
Prepare.
a: Dress for comfort - you'll be doing lots of walking.
b: Bring support materials - water, snacks, hat, sunscreen.
c: Bring tools - magnet, tape measure, magnifying glass, flashlight.
d: Bring lots of small bills. Dealers don't usually have a lot of change. -
Step 3
Arrive early. Ideally, you want to get there while the dealers are still setting up.
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Step 4
Adjust your search speed. If you're looking for one or two specific items, walk fast and scan. If you're looking for something that just catches your eye, move slowly and look thoroughly in each space.
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Step 5
Examine everything CLOSELY. Items rarely look as good at home as they did at the market. Cracks seem to appear out of nowhere. Suddenly you notice that a piece is missing. Don't hurry the examination
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Step 6
BEWARE OF REPRODUCTIONS. Many antique items are now being reproduced. Look for wear, particularly on the base. If it looks too good to be true it may well be.
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Step 7
Don't fall in love with anything. Your strongest negotiating tactic is the ability to walk away if the price isn't right for you.
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Step 8
If you do fall in love with it, don't try to wring the last penny out of the dealer. You don't want to overpay, but if you really want it and the price is close, BUY IT. If you walk away the chances are it will be gone when you return to buy it a bit later - then you'll kick yourself for not buying it earlier.
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Step 9
Dealers are usually more willing to negotiate if you purchase more than one item from them. Get a price on an item at a time, then make a pile with them and try to get a better price for the lot.
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Step 10
Negotiate nicely. Start low (50% to 75% of the offered price) and work up slowly. Most dealers build in at least a 10% discount. Remember, there are all sorts of personalities selling at the flea market. Some dealers will be offended at any low offer while others will be glad to accept it. You don't know until you ask. ASK.
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Step 11
Don't buy something just because it's cheap. If you don't need it it's not a deal.
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Step 12
Be prepared to walk away. That doesn't mean you won't be back to try again in 15 minutes or so, but sometimes you can get the dealer to take your price if he sees your money walking away.
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Step 13
Have fun. A flea market is a people show. Get involved and become part of the show.
