Estate sales are a treasure trove for vintage lovers, collectors, and bargain hunters alike. Not only do they offer a unique glimpse into the past, but they also provide an opportunity to find rare, valuable, and personal items that you won’t easily find elsewhere.
However, navigating through an estate sale can be a bit overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. In this blog post, I’m going to share with you 13 things I always look for at estate sales. These tips will help you make the most out of your estate sale adventures.
1. Vintage Furniture
Vintage furniture is often a hidden gem at estate sales. Not only does it carry a unique charm and history, but it is also often made with better quality materials and craftsmanship than modern furniture.
Look for pieces that show signs of solid construction such as dovetail joints and real wood. A little bit of wear and tear can add to the charm, but avoid items with major damage unless you’re up for a restoration project. Even if you don’t need any new furniture, smaller pieces like vintage chairs or side tables can be a nice addition to your interior décor.
2. Artwork
Artwork is another item that can be a great find at estate sales. You might not find a lost masterpiece, but you can certainly find intriguing pieces that add character to your home.
Be open-minded and look beyond the name of the artist. Sometimes, the most interesting pieces are by unknown artists. Additionally, frames alone can sometimes be worth the price, especially if they are antique or hand-carved. So, even if the artwork itself isn’t to your taste, consider the value of the frame.
3. Vintage Clothing and Accessories
Vintage clothing and accessories are a must-look for at estate sales. They offer unique styles and quality that’s hard to find in today’s fast-fashion world.
Look for high-quality fabrics, unique patterns, and well-made pieces. Don’t forget to check out the accessories too. Vintage jewelry, hats, scarves, and handbags can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Even if you don’t plan on wearing them, they can be sold online or kept as collectibles.
4. Kitchenware
Quality kitchenware never goes out of style. Look for well-made pots, pans, baking dishes, and utensils. Brands like Le Creuset, Pyrex, and Cast Iron pieces often sell at a fraction of their retail price.
Also, keep an eye out for vintage tableware. Beautiful china, silverware, and glassware can be a great find. Even if a set is incomplete, individual pieces can still be valuable.
5. Records and Musical Instruments
Records and musical instruments can be a great find at estate sales. Not only can they be valuable, but they also make for great conversation pieces.
Vinyl records have seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and you can often find a wide variety of music genres. As for musical instruments, even if they need some restoration, they can still be a good investment.
6. Books
Books are another item to look for at estate sales. While many people overlook them, they can be a gold mine for collectors.
Look for first editions, signed copies, and books by well-known authors. Even if you’re not a book collector, a good book can always be a great addition to your home library.
7. Hand Tools
Hand tools are often a great buy at estate sales. They’re usually made of high-quality materials and can last for generations if properly cared for.
Look for well-known brands and tools that show little signs of wear. Even if you’re not handy, quality tools can always come in handy or be sold for a profit.
8. Antique Toys
Antique toys can be a great find at estate sales. Not only do they evoke a sense of nostalgia, but they can also be quite valuable, especially if they’re in good condition.
Look for well-known brands and toys that are still in their original packaging. Even if you’re not a collector, antique toys can make for great decorative pieces.
9. Garden Tools and Equipment
Garden tools and equipment are another item to look for at estate sales. They’re often well-made and can be quite expensive to buy new.
Look for tools that are in good condition and brands that are known for their durability. Even if you’re not a gardener, quality garden tools can always come in handy.
10. Sports Memorabilia
Sports memorabilia can be a great find at estate sales. They can be valuable, especially if they’re signed or rare.
Look for items that are in good condition and have some sort of authentication. Even if you’re not a sports fan, sports memorabilia can be sold for a profit.
11. Rare Coins and Currency
Rare coins and currency can be a hidden treasure at estate sales. They can be quite valuable, especially if they’re rare or in excellent condition.
Look for coins and currency that are rare, in good condition, and have some sort of historical significance. Even if you’re not a collector, rare coins and currency can be sold for a profit.
12. Vintage Electronics
Vintage electronics can be a great find at estate sales. They can be valuable, especially if they’re in good condition and fully functional.
Look for electronics that are in good condition, functional, and have all their parts. Even if you’re not a techie, vintage electronics can make for great decorative pieces or be sold for a profit.
13. Rugs and Textiles
Finally, rugs and textiles are another item to look for at estate sales. They can add a unique touch to your home décor and can be quite valuable.
Look for rugs and textiles that are in good condition, have unique patterns, and are made of quality materials. Even if you’re not in need of a new rug or textile, they can always be sold for a profit.