Shopping Second Hand: 5 Hacks For Getting the Best Deals

It feels great to score a bargain, doesn’t it? That’s one of the reason that we love to shop for vintage and thrifted items! It is so satisfying to get a gorgeous, cashmere cropped sweater for just two bucks, or a pair of vintage boots for five. Instead of just getting those deals once in a while, learn the hacks that will help you get those bargains consistently.

1. Know What Dates Your Store Re-Stocks

Ask an employee at your local consignment shop about the store’s routines. They might always put out newly donated or purchased items on a Tuesday, for example, or maybe they restock on the first of the month. Get to know the schedule that you can be the first set of eyes on the new items. Otherwise, some other savvy shopper is going to snatch up the great deal before you can! 

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

The price tags on consignment items are not as locked in as prices on items in big chain stores. Often times, a reseller has come up with the price listed based on his or her own knowledge about the piece. If you think something is overpriced, talk to the store owner about your thoughts. Maybe you have some inside info about the furniture or clothing that the seller doesn’t have.

3. Look for Hidden Defects

Examine the used furniture or clothing thoroughly, looking for damage. If you spot something, such as a chip in a wooden dresser, rust on a chair, a wobbly leg on a table, or a small tear in a purse lining, bring it to the attention of the cashier. Show them the damage, and see if they might sell you the item at a discount.

4. Wait for the Sale

Thrift stores have limited space, and they’re always getting new items in. That’s good news for us vintage lovers! It means that sellers have to put items on sale to keep things moving through the shop. Before you overspend, as the store owner or an employee if there is a sale coming up. Usually, items go on sale every few weeks, and certainly at the end of a season. Some stores even have sales once in a while where you can fill a bag for a fixed price. 

5. Buy Clothing in Off Season

Speaking of seasons… here’s a hack that will save you so much money! Buy seasonal items several months before or after the season has ended. For example, if you’re looking for a new winter jacket, start searching the stores for it in July. This way, you’ll be likely to get the item on a steep discount rather than paying full price. When items are in high demand, the prices go up. But when demand drops, so do the prices! 

I hope these hacks and second hand shopping strategies will help you get many great deals! I don’t know about yo, but I hate the feeling of overpaying for second hand items. One of the best things about shopping at thrift stores is saving money. It’s so satisfying to get a bargain. Brag about your bargains in the comments section, below!