Thrifty Thursday: Garage Sales & Thrift Shop Tips

Thrifty Thursday: Garage sales and thrift stores tips

In many places I realize the warmer days of garage sale-ing is ending, not here in the south of course.  But these tips work for thrift stores as well.

In general:  Go with a list just like grocery shopping.  Think of things you would like to find and what price you are willing to pay--based on the condition, your budget, its usefulness, etc.  With a list you are able to know and write down what the item(s) cost if bought new at a store and so have a good starting point for what price to look for at a sale or thrift store.

All items:  Inspect the items, is it broken but fixable, is it clean or dirty (but cleanable?), does it work for what you will want it for? can you redo it (paint, fix, upholster, etc.)?  Are you planning on using it until it can’t be used anymore, or fixing it up and reselling it--does the fix-up costs make the item worth less?

Remember:  People are getting rid of the stuff for a reason--what is that reason???--downsizing/moving, replacing, was/is there a problem with it (zipper won’t stay up, material cut funky-designs don’t match up, collars curl, wrinkles easily, drawer doesn’t come out easily, paint is chipping, scratches, cord is frayed, missing parts, etc)

Clothing: how many places can the item be worn to (situations); How many other items of clothing will it match/go with?;  How many ways can it be accessorized?  Answering these questions work well when buying clothing new too!    You will need to determine what number is important to you:  is only being able to wear the item once ok with you?  Or is being able to wear it in multiple places in multiple ways important to you?

Finding deals:  to find out where local garage sales are--often the local newspaper has classifieds listing locations, as well as craigslist.  Look for signs--sometimes church/community rummage sales post signs weeks in advance, as do neighborhoods/subdivisions with block/subdivision sales.  Sometimes groups will have fundraising garage sales (dance schools, schools, church youth groups, etc.).  Sometimes those storage places hold garage sales for their clients to sell some of the stuff in storage (again watch for signs).  As for thrift stores, depending on the store, some offer sales as well--like yellow tags 50% off on certain days, or fill a bag for $5, some even have after Thanksgiving (and other holiday) sales.

I hope these few tips and ideas are helpful in getting good and great deals!