Finding second hand goods near you

If you’re the type of person who goes to local garage sales, Google’s ‘second hand goods near me’ and trawls online sites for used bargains, then you’re a bit like Gary Hennessy from Gary’s Bazaar. He set up his store in part to reduce the incredible waste of second hand goods going to landfill and instead wanting to see these goods as valuable assets with much more to give.

As well as loving second hand goods, there’s another trait that most used items buyers want: to sniff out a bargain. Here are some tips from Gary’s Bazaar to help you do just that.

Buying second hand goods – 7 tips to get the best bargains

1. Research
   Do some research and determine a price that you’d expect to pay for your second hand goods and a price that you’d be willing to pay. The first number is critical and it’s the price you won’t go above, even if emotions get the better of you. The second number is perhaps what you might consider a bargain.
2. Quality
   When it comes to second hand goods, it’s not just about the price, it’s also about the quality. It’s reasonable to assume that at item in excellent condition will fetch more than something that’s not. Quality is a little easier to spot in items such as furniture and household items, where a discerning eye and possibly testing is all that’s required. It pays to know your stuff if you’re in the market for items such as electrical or collectables.
3. Niche items 
   Are you looking to buy second hand clothes, books, or other niche items? While some second hand stores and online markets sell pretty much everything, there are less diversified specialty sellers. Second hand books and clothes are obvious ones.
4. It doesn’t hurt to barter
   If you’re looking for a bargain, don’t forget to barter. While only some online platforms essentially allow bartering, most second hand physical sellers almost expect it. It certainly doesn’t hurt to ask!
5. Park your emotions
   We touched on it above, but if you’re after a bargain, you need to park your emotions. Search for second hand goods that you need or really want and not something that’s just caught your eye. Have a budget and stick to it. Do your research and know what you are looking for.
6. Restoration 
   If you want a real bargain, second hand items that need a bit of tender loving care are a potential gold mine. However, they’re only bargains if you have the skills to bring them back to their previous glory. So, know your limitations and buy accordingly.
7. Trust
   There’s always an element of trust when buying second hand goods because often there’s little recourse if something goes wrong. So, check out any reviews you can find on the sellers you intend use.

Be respectful

Remember, too, that while you are looking for bargains when buying second hand goods, there’s another party involved and that’s the sellers. Always be respectful in your dealings and when bartering, don’t offer ridiculously low prices as it’s simply insulting to the seller.

Good luck sniffing out your bargains!