Bargain Basics

Treasure Hunting
What's trash to one person may be treasure to you. That's why shopping at garage sales, rummage sales, yard sales and estate sales can be a great way to find bargains. Here are some tips to help you find some great deals:

Neighborhood
Picking the right place to shop can mean the difference between going home empty handed or with a car full of goodies. If you're looking for antiques, experts suggest heading to older neighborhoods. If you looking for things like baby clothes and cribs, then younger neighborhoods are the place to go.

Timing
If you're looking to get your hands on better quality items, go to the sale early. That way, the merchandise won't be picked over. But, if bargain prices are more important, head out to the sale at the end of the day. Chances are the person throwing the sale will be willing to slash prices to simply get rid of the items.

Inspect.
If someone is trying to get rid of something, it may be for a reason. So, before you spend your hard-earned money, inspect the merchandise carefully. For example, if it's a lamp, plug it in and make sure it works. If it's made of glass, look for chips. And if it's clothing, look for stains.

Ask
If you don't find something you're looking for, ask. They may have somethin they were thinking of selling, but haven't put it out yet.

Haggle
When it comes to getting a good deal, never offer a price for anything. Instead, ask the seller how low he or she is willing to go on the price. Then get ready to haggle.

Change
If you're looking to make a purchase at a garage sale, the seller may not have the correct change. So, make sure to bring small bills and change with you.

Measure
If you're looking to buy furniture, bring along a tape measure. That way you won't buy something that won't fit in your home. And iIf you're buying clothing for family members, consider writing down all their sizes on a piece of paper. This list will help you when you get to the sale.