How to Shop Flea Markets for Valuable Bargain Items

Everyone loves a good bargain. It is even better when your bargain is a valuable find. You can definitely find a valuable bargain at flea markets. Spring will be here before we know it. The best flea markets happen during those first warm days of Spring. Here is a wonderful handy checklist to assure finding the valuable bargains.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Flea markets around the country
• Internet

1. 
   Flea market items

   To find the REAL flea market bargains you will need to dig deep for those treasures. Use your internet to look up flea markets near or somewhat near, if you are willing to drive a bit of distance. Sometimes it works well in your favor to find the lesser known markets or vendors because they can be often overlooked. I believe bargains are everywhere. You just have to recognize them.

2. 
   Flea Market—valuable finds In rugs and fabrics

   Look for potential. Look for items with cosmetic flaws that can be taken care of with refinishing, reupholstering, or even rewiring. These pieces can be restored and most people will pass them up because they see them as damaged. Sometimes even vendors don't know their value and will mark the item very low. And be sure to peek under the upholstery to examine the original fabric. Many of the fabrics underneath are no longer manufactured.

3. 
   Flea Market—ornate deeply carved antique

   Look for really deep carvings. This is a characteristic of authentic antiques. If there are structural problems make sure the price is super cheap. This could require a lot of time and money to repair. Make sure it is worth it before purchasing.

4. 
   Flea Market—peeling paint reveals valuable items

   Check under peeling paint to see the original finish. I have a beautiful old Mahogany chest that had a layer of ugly green paint on it. When strip and finished it was gorgeous and valued at $1000.00.

5. 
   Lenci

   Look for hallmarks, markings, signatures. I found a beautiful figurine and signed on the bottom was Elena Scavine and Lenci. I noticed the toe had a small chip. I paid $20.00 and sold it on eBay for $3500.00. So check for the signature but try and keep the price you pay low. I always wear a loup or magnifying glass around my neck so if the markings are too small to see.

6. 
   Fun at the flea-market

   Last thing, do not be put off by rusty metal, missing hinges, knobs, or pulls. I found a pretty hutch with peeling paint and no knobs. Hours later I found old cut glass knobs that worked perfectly for the hutch. Today it is splendid! With patience, fortitude, some imagination and clever looking you can find some of the best treasures at flea markets. Happy hunting!

Resources

• Antiques Flea Market (Trash 'n' Treasures Mysteries)
• The Intrepid Art Collector

[gerrie5044]

on 4/8/2009 This article gets me excited for the Spring and going to flea markets!! 5*

[static404]

on 2/11/2009 Sounds like you've bene to plenty of flea markets. Thanks for all the good tips.

[kaytay]

on 1/28/2009 Very well written. Great ideas too. 5 stars

[genehoffpauir]

on 1/27/2009 I set up a Knife sharpening booth every week at a swap meet about 50 miles from home. When I get set up early, I check out the other vendors for bargains and to tell them about my booth. I find bargains very often, some even bring them to me. Great article! 5*

[mfahrney]

on 1/27/2009 Great advice about an interesting hobby...thanks!