Resale shopping can be an adventurous treasure hunt. It can be a weekday outing with a friend or weekend hobby with your significant other. You, too, can have a story with which to amaze your friends when they start talking about the great deals they found on e-bay, at the auction or at a garage sale. 

Resale may be a new experience for you so let me share with you some tips to being a savvy resale shopper.

1. Shop Often – Consignors take in items every day.
2. Shop Wisely – Prices drop everyday.
3. Shop Systematically – Resale shops are packed with hundreds of items. Take a
quick walk through and then walk slowly around again..
4. Shop Intently- Keep a purse-size notebook with color chips, fabric samples and a list of pieces you would love to find. Throw in a tape measure.
5. Shop Creatively- Picture that chair in your home refinished, with a new color, or a fun fabric.
6. Shop Techi – Keep a camera in your purse to take pictures of items you think might work at home.  Get on their wish list for particular needs.
7. Shop Smart - Ask about the purchasing policies. Do they take credit cards? Do they allow for returns? Do they have a layaway program?
8. Shop Resourcefully- Ask for assistance. The shopkeepers know their inventory and can help you mix and match pieces and they want you to have a fun, productive experience.
9. Shop Comparatively – Check prices in other consignment stores or new retail. You’ll be pleased at the bargains.
10. Shop Impulsively - Have fun. If you buy something you grow tired of, consign it and buy something new.

So give it a try. Grab a cup of coffee and wander through resale shops one Saturday morning. You’ll meet the nicest people, find the prefect treasure and help our world by recycling.