Where to Find Antiques and Collectibles

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To see the most antiques and collectibles in your neighborhood, look beyond your local antique store. Keep your eyes open for estate sales, antique shows and auctions and be willing to scour thrift shops and garage sales to increase your chances of getting the next great find.
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Must Know

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Make friends with shop owners.
Whether it’s your local antique store or the thrift shop downtown, building relationships with shop owners can result in inside tips and even the occasional discount.

By: Life123 Editors
Keep your eyes open for mismarked items.
No dealer knows it all and that furniture dealer who has some pottery may not know the piece they’re selling is actually worth ten times their asking price.

By: Life123 Editors
Get your name on mailing lists.
Auction houses, estate sales companies and event promoters often send notifications to customers. Get your name on the mailing lists that interest you most so you’re aware of what’s happening in your area.

By: Life123 Editors

Trap Door

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Don’t turn your nose up at garage sales.
Urban myths abound about people who paid a nickel for an item that wound up being worth thousands, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find good values if you’re willing to look hard enough.

By: Life123 Editors
Don’t shop sporadically.
Antique and collectible merchandise moves regularly, so you should shop regularly to stay on top of local inventory.

By: Life123 Editors
Don’t limit yourself to one or two venues.
If you’re serious about beginning your collection, it pays to check out all the options available to you. Your favorite shop might not have first edition books today, but the estate sale two towns over might.

By: Life123 Editors

Experts Say

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Leslie Hindman, owner of Leslie Hindman Auctioneers in Chicago

People who buy at auctions are really smart because they're cutting out the middle man.

Shopping at Auctions, Oprah.com
Sheryl Olsen, recycling artist

Estate-sale shopping is very competitive. You will be dealing with professional antique dealers and seasoned collectors. If you hesitate, items can disappear right in front of you. The best strategy is to grab now and decide later.

Shopping Estate Sales, HGTV.com
DIYLife.com

Don't rush in and buy on impulse. Concerned an item is over-priced, not a true antique, needs repairs or maybe just won't fit with your other decor? Let it go. At the very least, take a digital snapshot, then go home and mull it over before committing yourself.

Antique furniture shopping: five top tips, DIYLife.com