As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. This couldn’t be more true when it comes to thrift stores. Not only are they a great place to find unique and vintage items, but they can also be a source of income if you know how to navigate them. In this ultimate guide, we will explore different strategies for making money from thrift stores.
1. Start by knowing what sells
The first step to making money from thrift stores is knowing what items sell well. It’s important to research what’s popular in reselling markets, such as eBay or Poshmark. Some examples of hot-ticket items include vintage clothing, designer handbags, and furniture. Look for items that are in good condition and have a unique appeal.
2. Check for sales and discounts
Thrift stores often have sales and discounts, especially during holidays or seasonal changes. Be sure to check their website or social media pages to see if they’re offering any deals. Here are some common types of sales you may come across:
– Color-coded tag sales: Certain colored tags will be discounted on specific days
– Bulk discounts: Buy a certain number of items and receive a percentage off
– Seasonal sales: Discounts on items related to the current season (e.g. winter coats in the summer)
3. Haggle on prices
Don’t be afraid to negotiate with thrift store employees on prices. While some thrift stores have strict pricing policies, others may be willing to lower the price if an item has been on the shelf for a while. Just be polite and reasonable with your requests.
4. Resell online
One of the most profitable ways to make money from thrift store finds is by reselling them online. There are plenty of websites and apps that make selling easy, such as eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Mercari. This method requires some time and effort, but if done correctly, can yield a significant profit.
5. Host a garage sale
If you have a lot of thrift store finds that you want to get rid of, consider hosting a garage sale. This is a great way to sell multiple items at once and attract local buyers who may not be looking for your items online.
6. Flip furniture
Furniture is one of the best items to flip from thrift stores. Look for sturdy pieces with good bones that can be refinished or repurposed. You don’t need to be a professional carpenter to make these changes – there are plenty of DIY tutorials online to guide you.
7. Rent out costumes
Thrift stores typically have a wide selection of costumes and vintage clothing. If you live in an area where people frequently attend themed parties or events, consider renting out these items for a fee.
8. Donate stock to consignment shops
If you’re not interested in selling items online or through a garage sale, consider donating your stock to a consignment shop. Consignment shops will sell your items on your behalf and give you a percentage of the profits.
In conclusion, there are plenty of ways to make money from thrift stores. By knowing what sells, taking advantage of sales and discounts, reselling online, flipping furniture, renting out costumes, and donating to consignment shops, you can turn your trips to the thrift store into a profitable venture. Remember to always be patient and persistent in your search for valuable items. With some effort and a bit of luck, the possibilities are endless.
