I’ve been darting around outdoor flea markets since I was little. We rarely bought a lot, but my dad and I always picked our purchases carefully and hunted for the best bargains.
Those same habits stuck with me into adulthood: I run a vintage clothing shop and regularly buy and sell items. Want to pick up some of my most reliable pointers for making connections and getting great prices at flea markets?
Some of these suggestions may sound obvious, but that common-sense approach goes a long way. Wouldn’t you be more inclined to help a customer who’s polite, or even friendly? Put yourself in the seller’s place. Let’s dive in!
1. Arrive Early, But Don’t Be an Early Shopper
It’s tempting to sneak a peek at booths as vendors are setting up, but early shoppers — those who try to buy before the market officially opens — can ruffle sellers and make them irritable.
Wait until the official start time before rifling through someone’s goods, and you’ll avoid beginning on the wrong foot.
2. Bring Cash
“Get there early and bring cash,” Cari Cucksey of HGTV’s Cash & Cari advised the Huffington Post. “Cash is king.”
Many sellers have card readers through services such as Square, PayPal and Intuit, but most prefer to avoid processing fees and handle the sale in cash. They might even give a small reduction to buyers who pay with cash.
3. Wear a Friendly Expression
If a vendor greets you, don’t be aloof or ignore them. Smile, say hello and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
“What can you tell me about this piece?” is a great question to keep in mind. A knowledgeable seller may share detailed info about an item’s origin or a brand’s production methods. Learning as you shop is enjoyable, and it can help you better assess an item’s resale value if you plan to flip it.
Conversely, if a seller seems uninformed about a piece you know well, you might stumble onto an exceptional bargain. Keep those ears open!
4. Be Upfront
You don’t need to wear a sign advertising your online shop, but if a vendor asks whether you’re a dealer, it’s wiser to be truthful. That seller with one vintage Cabbage Patch Doll displayed might actually have a whole stash they’d like to move to a reseller like you!
Don’t hesitate to “talk shop” with vendors — it could lead to a fruitful relationship.
5. Haggle with Tact
Markets are expected to involve bargaining. Still, some sellers are emotionally attached to their pieces, especially if they believe them to be valuable. Approach bargaining by asking, “Is there any room on this price?” or, “Is this your best price?”
If negotiation doesn’t go your way, avoid reacting impulsively. Saying “I could buy it cheaper online!” or “That’s not worth that much!” won’t endear you to vendors.
Instead try, “That’s out of my budget,” or “It’s a bit steep for me — I’ll think it over.” By acknowledging the seller’s need to make a profit as well, you’re more likely to reach a compromise that satisfies both sides.
6. Bundle Up Later in the Day
Sellers usually don’t want to take everything back home at closing, so they’re often more willing to lower prices in the afternoon.
If a vendor is open to bargaining, propose a price for a group of items you’ve been eyeing: maybe a handbag and matching jewelry, or a small table that complements a chair. Most sellers appreciate a buyer who offers a fair price to take home multiple pieces.
One memorable win of mine happened at a flea market in rural Vermont. I intended to pick up two handfuls of vintage costume jewelry, but I’d also been admiring a 1920s cocktail ring for myself. I told the seller I was considering the personal purchase, and he said he couldn’t drop the ring’s price. However, he offered the rest of the jewelry I’d selected for half of what I’d anticipated paying. In that case, I managed to mix business with pleasure at a price that suited me.
Your Turn: Are you a market regular? What are your go-to tips and tricks for snagging the best bargains?
For related ways to find deals and save on purchases, check out liquidation sales and tips on how to save money on groceries without coupons.
