Etsy Insights: Estate sale secrets | Etsy Success

VintageRescueSquad · 2020-03-09T14:41:02.052000Z

I'm Sue, of Vintage Rescue Squad. I've been selling vintage since 2006—on etsy since 2009. In anticipation of early retirement, I knew I needed to establish my online presence early. Three more years to go! As vintage dealers, we have loads of sources: thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets, etc. But one of the least-known to the public are estate sales. Normally, they are run by estate-sale companies who are selling the contents of a home following a death. Sales typically take place in a home. If you happen upon one that is just your style (kitchenalia? militariana? vintage clothing from the 60s?), it can be a goldmine! You can fill up your Etsy shop with a broad selection of niche products, which is always good! Many years ago, I bought a motherload of ballroom-dancing trophies. That was fun. However, if you're just starting out at estate sales, get out of that yard sale mindset now. You will rarely find things for 25 cents. You'll still pay less than retail or at an antique store, but this isn’t a thrift store. Similarly, many estate sales are not the place to haggle for bargain prices. My modus operandi: Start in the area of the house where you expect to find the most gems. For me, it’s the basement and attic first. Early on, I establish a pile up at the register and loudly say, "Looks like I'm buying a LOT! Is it OK if I start a pile right here with you?" Now they know I'm a serious buyer, and they remember me. Or I might proclaim, "Ooooo, this looks like my kind of sale!" Even if I don't buy anything, I ask if the person working the sale if they have other upcoming sales, letting them know I'm a serious buyer. Estate-sale people can be your BFFs. If you’re budget conscious, or specialize in something that is less popular with the hard-core dealers, definitely go back on the last day of the sale—everything is usually half price! What sourcing secrets or tips can you share?

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