Searching for antique treasures in your local area can be an exciting and rewarding hobby. With some research and legwork, you can uncover rare finds and bargains on vintage and antique items. Here are tips on how to find great antiques near you.
Check Local Antique Stores and Malls
The first place to start your antique hunt is local antique stores and malls. They will have a wide selection of items from various eras that you can browse through.
- Search online directories and maps to find all the antique stores in your city and surrounding towns. Look at their websites and social media to get a feel for their inventory before visiting.
- Visit different antique malls that have multiple antique dealers and booths under one roof. This allows you to cover more ground in your search. Go regularly, as stock rotates.
- Get to know the owners and employees of your favorite local antique shops. Let them know what you collect and they can keep an eye out for those items.
- Ask questions when you see something you like. Many antique dealers are very knowledgeable about the history and background of their wares.
- Negotiate prices when possible. Be reasonable, but don’t be afraid to make an offer, especially if buying multiple items.
Where to Find Local Antique Stores
- Online directories like Google Maps, Yelp, Yellowpages.com
- Antique store listings on AntiqueTradeFairs.com and LoveAntiques.com
- Search hashtags like #yourcityantiques on Instagram and Facebook
- Drive around commercial districts and look for antique store signage
- Local newspaper classifieds and pennysaver advertisements
Check Estate Sales and Auctions
Estate sales and auctions are ideal places to find antiques as people are clearing out belongings. Be prepared to act fast if you spot something you want.
- Look for estate sale listings on estatesales.net, craigslist.org, and local classifieds. Sign up for email alerts.
- For auctions, check auctionzip.com, liveauctioneers.com, invaluable.com for local options. Read terms carefully.
- Inspect items thoroughly before bidding or buying. Look for damage, repairs, or alterations.
- Factor in additional buyer’s premiums and taxes into your maximum bid price.
- Bring a flashlight, magnifying glass, and small tools like a pocket knife to inspect pieces.
- Be ready to pay in full and transport purchases immediately after winning.
Tips for Buying at Auctions
- Arrive early to register and preview merchandise. Make notes on what you want to bid on.
- Check if the auction is reserve (minimum bid) or absolute (sell to highest bidder).
- Decide your max bid and stick to it. Auction fever can take over in the heat of bidding.
- Bid confidently and clearly. Make eye contact or bold gestures so the auctioneer sees you.
- Be prepared to pay right away if you win. Know the payment methods accepted.
Search Online Marketplaces and Classifieds
You can uncover great antique finds being sold directly from other collectors online. It helps to check these sites regularly since inventory turns over often.
- Browse major marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, Ruby Lane and Chairish for antiques. Sort by category, location, price.
- Check Facebook Marketplace and local Facebook groups like “[Your City] Buy Sell Trade” for antiques for sale nearby.
- Search Craigslist under the “antiques” category for your area and surrounding locations.
- Check OfferUp and Letgo apps which both have antique categories. Great for finding local deals.
- Look at specialty antique resale sites like Incollect, TIAS, and Antique Cupboard.
- Sign up for alerts and new listings emails to get notified of new inventory.
Questions to Ask When Buying Antiques Online
- Does the item have any damage, repairs, or alterations?
- Are there any markings, stamps, or signatures that identify the maker?
- What is the estimated production date of the piece?
- Do you provide additional photos from different angles?
- Is the item still available? When can it be shipped?
- What is your return policy if the item arrives damaged?
Go to Antique and Vintage Fairs
Outdoor antique fairs and markets are a great opportunity see a wide variety of quality antiques from numerous dealers in one location.
- Use AntiqueTradeFairs.com to search upcoming shows by state. View exhibitor lists.
- Arrive early for the best selection. Bring a rolling cart to carry purchases.
- Walk the entire fair first before buying to scope out all the vendors.
- Check items carefully for damage before purchasing. Authenticity is key.
- Pay in cash if possible. Vendors may offer better deals compared to credit cards.
- Ask the dealers questions about the age, background, and provenance of an item you like.
- Be prepared to negotiate, but only if prices are not clearly marked. Offer 30-40% below asking price.
- Coordinate with fair dates when planning a visit to a new town. Check calendars in advance.
Helpful Tips for Antique Fairs
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes – you’ll be on your feet all day
- Bring food, water, and sun protection for outdoor fairs
- Have antique resource books on your phone to assist in identifying finds
- Take business cards from dealers you like to follow up with later
- Take your own fabric shopping bags to easily carry small purchases
Check Garage, Yard, and Moving Sales
You never know what antique treasures you might uncover at random garage, yard, estate, and moving sales around town. Make a regular route to find them.
- Check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for posted sales, especially estate and moving sales.
- Drive or walk around neighborhoods on Friday and Saturday mornings to look for yard sale signs.
- Stop if you see a crowded sale – it usually means they have good items.
- Scan for antique furniture, rugs, paintings, lamps, decor items as you browse. Examine carefully.
- Negotiate bundle deals for multiple lower-priced items – most sellers want to clear everything out.
- Inquire if the seller has additional boxes of antiques or collectibles not already unpacked for sale.
- Ask sellers the history of more valuable antiques – were they inherited, where they originated, etc.
Negotiating Deals at Yard Sales
- Point out any flaws or damage to ask for a lower price. Most sellers expect negotiations.
- Politely ask “What’s the lowest price you can take on this?” See if they counteroffer.
- Offer to buy multiple lower-priced items for a bundled discounted rate.
- If paying in cash, ask “What’s your best price if I pay in cash?” Cash deals can save 10-30%.
- Only make fair offers. Yard sale items are usually priced attractively already.
Check Thrift Stores and Consignment Shops
Thrift and consignment shops receive so many donated items, some great antiques slip through the cracks into their inventory.
- Visit thrift stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity in higher-income areas.
- Check consignment shops in antique store districts. Their standards tend to be higher.
- Search shelves, bins, and displays carefully. Items are usually grouped by general category, not era.
- Examine items for any marks or stamps that could identify age, brand, or origin. Research values later.
- Thrift stores have regular discount days for certain color tags – learn the schedule.
- Be prepared to act quickly if you find a great item – antique stock sells fast at secondhand stores.
Spotting Valuable Antiques at Thrift Stores
- Vintage clothing with good fabric, beading, embroidery, and construction
- Older furniture made from solid wood, not particle board
- Sterling silver pieces – check for markings
- Handmade quilts, especially early American patterns
- Artisan pottery and stoneware with markings on the bottom
- Vintage musical instruments, especially stringed
- Decorative items made of brass, copper, or bronze
Search Architectural Salvage Stores
Architectural salvage stores are great spots to uncover unique antique building supplies, lighting, hardware, doors, and architectural decor salvaged from old structures.
- Look for local salvage warehouses in industrial areas – they have vintage stock at lower price points.
- Search Houzz.com for “architectural salvage” in your state to find high-end salvage stores.
- Brownstonevolved.com is an online resource listing architectural salvage stores across America.
- Study the style of your home before visiting. Buy pieces that match or complement.
- Take measurements and photos of the space where you plan to use the salvaged pieces.
- Ask questions about the origin and age of any wares that interest you. Purchase paperwork if available.
- Be prepared to adapt salvaged pieces like sinks, doors or lumber to fit your home. Change can add character!
Common Antique Architectural Finds
- Interior and exterior doors
- Clawfoot bathtubs
- Farmhouse sinks and kitchen prep tables
- Shutters and hardware
- Mantels and fireplace tiles
- Furniture and lighting
- Stained glass windows
Check Barn Sales and Flea Markets
For a fun antique excursion on weekends, visit old barn sales and flea markets out in rural areas. You can find great deals negotiating directly with vendors.
- Search Facebook events, Craigslist, and community bulletins for upcoming barn and tent sales.
- Arrive early – dealers with the best items sell out fastest. Bring small bills for payment.
- Wear old clothes and shoes in case it’s dusty or muddy. Leave valuables at home.
- Scope out the entire market before buying to get a sense of quality and price range.
- Check linens, glassware, farm implements, and machinist tools for makers marks.
- Don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if paying cash. Offer 30%-50% below asking prices.
- Reputable dealers will openly share information about their items. Take their business cards.
Types of Antiques Found at Flea Markets
- Vintage cast iron, tin, and enamelware kitchen items
- Antique quilts, coverlets, blankets, and sewing notions
- Oil lanterns, horse tack, pulleys, and hand forged tools
- Classic dinnerware, silverware, and glassware sets
- Old bottles, trunks, baskets, and crates
- Rustic furniture, wagons, benches, and wagons
Get to Know Local Pickers and Dealers
Having a network of local antique buyers, pickers, and dealers you get to know and trust can greatly help you find prized local antiques.
- When visiting shops and shows, get business cards from dealers who have merchandise you like.
- Tell them the types of items you collect and the price points you look for. Provide your contact info.
- Check pickers’ websites and social media to see items they source before sales are posted online.
- Some dealers may give you first dibs if they obtain an unusual item they know you’ll like.
- Dealers you develop relationships with may tip you off to area estate sales or auctions with good finds.
- Invite your picker friends over to see if they are interested in anything from your collections. They may make fair offers.
- Have dealers check out items you inherited but know little about – they can provide background info.
Questions for Dealers When Buying
- How long have you been in the business? Where do you source your antiques?
- Can you tell me the history and background of this piece? Do you have any paperwork?
- Do you check for things like signatures, markings, repairs, damage, or alterations?
- Is the price negotiable at all if I pay in cash? I would love to buy this from you.
Search High and Low at Antique Shops
Don’t be afraid to search high and low when browsing antique shops. You never know where you might uncover a hidden gem.
- Check inside and on top of furniture – dealers often tuck small items like dishes or vintage games inside drawers.
- Scan the bottom shelves – smaller Collectibles are often displayed down low.
- Peruse item bins – unsorted antique glassware, hardware, sewing items are often in boxes and trays.
- Look in nooks – unique antique lamps, statues, vases get tucked onto random ledges and cubby displays.
- Examine the ceiling – chandeliers, hanging baskets, and architectural salvage pieces are often displayed overhead.
- Peer behind large furniture – interesting framed art or mirrors sometimes get stacked back there.
- Scan the perimeter of the room at eye level too – unusual sconces, clocks, or signs might be hanging on side walls or posts.
- Check the storefront windows – eye catching infrequently used items are arranged here.
- Ask dealers if they have additional stock – they may have more wares in storage.
Talk to Elderly Neighbors and Friends
As the adage goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Many attics and basements hold unwanted antiques that you can inquire about.
- Get to know your community, especially longtime residents and senior neighbors.
- Tell them you’re interested in antiques from the era they grew up in. They may be eager to reminisce.
- Politely ask if they are looking to downsize any belongings. Offer to help evaluate or move items.
- When admiring something at their home, ask “Do you ever plan to sell that piece?” Show sincere interest.
- Offer to clean garages, attics, or storage spaces in exchange for first pick of any unwanted antiques.
- If given an item as a gift, reciprocate with a small gift or homemade food to show appreciation.
Building Community Relationships
- Volunteer to help neighbors with yardwork or errands to build trust and rapport.
- Follow up if they mention any family heirlooms – ask if they know the history or origin.
- Share your own knowledge if they inquire about identifying or valuing a certain antique.
- Provide references if asked – building goodwill takes time. Prove you are not just looking for freebies.
- Recommend estate sale companies if aging neighbors are looking to downsize belongings.
Check Historical Places
Local historical sites like museums and memorial buildings often have small gift shops with regional antiques, vintage reproductions, and history book recommendations to aid in your treasure hunt.
- Make a list of all the historical societies, preservation organizations, and museums in your county.
- Ask if they have a gift shop and if proceeds benefit the institution’s preservation mission.
- Look for antique prints, maps, and postcards related to local landmarks and regional history.
- Chat with the volunteers, historians, and collectors at these places to expand your regional knowledge.
- Ask for tips on other historical places to visit that may have rotating antique displays, museums, or shops.
- Get on their mailing lists for news of upcoming fairs, exhibits, auctions or shows.
Types of History Sites to Visit
- County and town historical societies
- Historic house and village museums
- Nonprofit archaeology and preservation groups
- Local heritage organizations and foundations
- State parks with historic sites
- Historical libraries and archive centers
- Living history farms and plantations
- Historic battlefields and forts
Browse Antique Guide Books and Magazines
Perusing books and magazines about antiques will give you more background knowledge and tips that can help you identify and evaluate potential local finds.
- Check your library for vintage price guides like Kovel’s Antiques and Collectibles Price Guide. Compare old vs. new editions.
- Look for niche antique books tailored to your specific interests like farmhouse antiques, midcentury modern, etc.
- Subscribe to a monthly antique magazine like Antique Trader or Antiques and Collectibles News to stay updated on trends.
- Study dealer price tags at antique shows and shops – make mental notes on typical price ranges for similar items.
- Follow leading online antiques newspapers and blogs like Antiqueweek.com and Antiquesandthearts.com.
- Save guide info on your phone to easily reference while out hunting local sales and stores.
- Get a pocket magnifying glass and UV blacklight flashlight to aid in spotting signatures, marks, repairs.
Useful Resources
- Kovels.com – Price and identification guides, collector news
- LiveAuctioneers.com – Search past auction archives and price results
- AntiquePriceGuide.com – Calculator provides values based on site data
- Barnebys.com – Price database for classic art, jewelry, watches, and antiques
Join Local Antiquing Groups and Clubs
Connecting with like-minded antique enthusiasts in your area can provide helpful tips, resources, and access to private group sales and events.
- Search Facebook and Meetup.com for local antique clubs or auction enthusiast groups to join.
- Check event listings at libraries, colleges, museums, and community centers for any antique group meetings, classes or lectures.
- Introduce yourself to fellow members and share your contact information and collecting interests.
- Attend meetings and social events to build relationships with long-time collectors in your area.
- Ask for recommendations on trustworthy appraisers, auction houses, or dealers that members frequent.
- Volunteer at a local historical society or antique show to network with vendors, organizers, and fellow patrons.
- Talk to members before sales start at club events – experienced buyers may share useful bargaining tips.
Types of Antique Associations
- Collector car clubs
- Quilt guilds
- Coin and stamp clubs
- Antique bottle collecting clubs
- chapters of national appraiser associations
- Regional antique dealer guilds
- Decorative arts societies
- Historical preservation groups
