Flea-Market-Shopping-Secrets and the
Art of Negotiating

Flea market shopping secrets... there really is a method to the madness! And it just takes a little practice and knowledge to get it right.

Outlined here are the basic secrets to successful flea market bargaining. Learn when to go, how to find the best stuff and how to negotiate great deals.

When to Go

The early bird gets the worm at a flea market! You truly will be rewarded for your efforts. Especially if what you are looking for is a hard to find piece. Go early and plan to spend the whole day there. If you find what you were looking for, generally it's best to buy it right when you find it, as there is the chance that it will be long gone at the end of the day.

Money to Bring

Do not rely on your credit/debit cards at the flea market! Vendors don't like to pay transaction fees and electrical outlets are sometimes not around, especially if it is an outdoor event. Bring plenty of cash, small bills are best to make change easier. Small bills from $1-$20 is ideal. Separate it into various amounts and store it in various places. After bargaining the price of an item down, you don't want to pull out a wad of cash to purchase it. This will destroy the win-win agreement you worked so hard to achieve. Also, bring only the amount of money you are willing to spend. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement at a flea market and break your budget for the rest of the month. Set a budget and bring only that amount of cash.

The Art of Negotiation

Negotiating is not about being confrontational, it is about open communication and helping both sides achieve a win-win situation. Bargaining at flea markets is expected, if done in an appropriate manner.

1. Be prepared. Know basically what the item is worth that you are negotiating before you even go to the flea market. You can be sure that the vendor has a good idea.

2. Build Rapport. Always smile and make eye contact with the vendor. You want them to feel at ease with you. Never, ever be rude to a vendor. Always be respectful, polite and fair. It's not only the right thing to do, it could also save you big bucks.

3. Never accept the initial offer. Instead, ask the dealer if there is any room for movement on the price. It is not uncommon for them to take 10-20% off, but don't expect a huge price slash. If you are interested in two or more items, ask for a discount on the pair. Vendors welcome getting rid of multiple items in one transaction.

4. Never become excited about an item in front of the dealer. If you do, s/he now knows that you are committed to the piece and he has no reason to accept lower than his initial offer. Effective negotiation is a skill like any other in that it takes practice and regular use to be successful. Flea markets are a great, casual place to do it, and it is expected by vendors. Just try it a little at a time, you'll get the hang of it and you will soon enjoy it too!

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