A day at a flea market can result in what we call “visual overkill.” You won’t be able to pick out special pieces after a while unless you plan correctly. Here are is a list of tips that will help you get the most of your shopping experience:

1. Research! You can’t get a good deal if you don’t know the going rate for an item. Visit eBay and search for closed auctions.
2. Go to the event searching for one thing, perhaps a nice cup and saucer or a mirror. You will also notice other objects, and perhaps even buy them, but the overwhelming clutter is more controlled if you focus on just the cups and saucers or mirror.
3. Don’t rush. Dealers are always putting more merchandise out as other pieces sell, so you will never see everything. Count on luck and your expertise to help you find a good deal.
4. Make a friend before you shop. When you approach someone’s booth, you should make a connection with them. They’ll feel better about giving you a good price if they think you’re a nice person.
5. No insults within earshot. Never insult someone or make comments that belittle them, their prices or their merchandise. Once you insult a seller, you will never get a good price.
6. Don’t be the first person to name a price. Always try to get the seller to name a price before blurting out what you’d be willing to spend. If the seller isn’t willing to do so, explain that you’re serious about the item but you want him or her to name a figure. Remember this line: “If you can do a little better, I’m a buyer.”