Estate sales can be an absolute goldmine for those who know what to look for. They can provide a treasure trove of unique items that you simply can’t find anywhere else, often at bargain prices.
Whether you’re a collector, a reseller, a DIY enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys the thrill of the hunt, estate sales can offer a wealth of opportunities. Let’s take a look at 14 items that I always keep an eye out for whenever I visit estate sales.
1. Vintage Furniture
Vintage furniture is one of the top items I always look for at estate sales. Not only can these pieces add a unique touch to your home decor, but they can also be a great investment. Quality vintage furniture often holds its value well and can even increase in value over time. For example, a well-maintained mid-century modern desk or chair can fetch a pretty penny.
When looking at vintage furniture, I always check for signs of quality such as solid wood construction, dovetail joints, and original hardware. I also look for pieces with character and charm – a worn leather chair, a retro coffee table, or an ornate wooden dresser can all make stunning additions to your home.
2. Fine China and Glassware
Fine china and glassware is another category of items that I often look for at estate sales. These items can be highly collectible, and some pieces can be worth a lot of money. Even if you’re not interested in reselling, fine china and glassware can add a touch of elegance to any dining table.
One thing to keep in mind when shopping for china and glassware is condition. Chips, cracks, and discoloration can significantly reduce the value of these items. It’s also worth doing some research beforehand to familiarize yourself with popular patterns and brands.
3. Vintage Clothing
Vintage clothing is a must-buy for me at estate sales. Not only can you find unique pieces that add a touch of retro flair to your wardrobe, but vintage clothing can also be a profitable resale item. From 70’s bell-bottom jeans to 50’s cocktail dresses, vintage clothing is always in demand.
When buying vintage clothing, it’s important to check for condition. Look for signs of wear such as stains, tears, and missing buttons. Also, keep an eye out for high-quality materials and well-known brands, as these can increase the value of the piece.
4. Books
Books are another item that I always look for at estate sales. Whether you’re a bookworm or a reseller, you can often find some real gems. First editions, signed copies, or books by popular authors can be highly valuable.
When shopping for books, I always check the condition. A book in good condition will always be worth more than a worn-out copy. Also, don’t forget to check inside the book for any inscriptions or signatures – these can significantly increase the value.
5. Artwork
Artwork is a great find at estate sales. You can often find original pieces or prints by well-known artists. Even if you’re not an art connoisseur, artwork can add a touch of sophistication to your home.
When buying artwork, research is key. It’s worth taking the time to learn about different styles and periods, as well as familiarizing yourself with popular artists. Also, remember to check the condition of the piece – any damage or wear can significantly reduce its value.
6. Jewelry
Jewelry is a must-buy for me at estate sales. From vintage costume jewelry to fine gold and diamond pieces, there’s always something to catch my eye. Even if you’re not a jewelry lover, these items can be highly valuable and are usually easy to resell.
When buying jewelry, always check for quality. Look for hallmarks or other markings that indicate the type of metal and the purity. Also, check for any damage – a broken clasp or missing gem can significantly reduce the value of the piece.
7. Records
Records are another item that I always look for at estate sales. Whether you’re a music lover or a reseller, records can be a great find. Some records can be highly valuable, especially those by popular artists or rare pressings.
When buying records, always check the condition. Look for scratches, warps, or other damage that could affect the playability of the record. Also, don’t forget to check the cover – a record with the original cover in good condition will always be worth more than one without.
8. Tools
Tools are a great find at estate sales. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional, you can often find high-quality tools at a fraction of the retail price. From hand tools to power tools, there’s usually something for everyone.
When buying tools, always check for quality. Look for well-known brands and check for any damage or wear. Also, don’t forget to check if any power tools are in working order – a tool that doesn’t work is usually worth very little.
9. Kitchenware
Kitchenware is another item that I always look for at estate sales. From vintage Pyrex to high-end cookware, you can often find some great deals. Even if you’re not a chef, quality kitchenware can make cooking at home a lot more enjoyable.
When buying kitchenware, always check for condition. Look for any chips, cracks, or other damage that could affect the usability of the item. Also, keep an eye out for high-quality materials and well-known brands, as these can increase the value of the piece.
10. Vintage Toys
Vintage toys are a must-buy for me at estate sales. Not only can these items be highly collectible, but they can also be a lot of fun to play with. From old board games to vintage action figures, there’s usually something for everyone.
When buying vintage toys, always check for condition. Look for any missing pieces or damage that could affect the value of the item. Also, don’t forget to check if any battery-operated toys are in working order – a toy that doesn’t work is usually worth very little.
11. Rugs
Rugs are a great find at estate sales. Not only can these items add a touch of elegance to your home, but they can also be highly valuable. From Persian rugs to vintage kilims, there’s usually something to catch my eye.
When buying rugs, always check for quality. Look for hand-knotted rugs and check for any damage or wear. Also, don’t forget to check the size – a larger rug will usually be worth more than a smaller one.
12. Cameras and Photography Equipment
Cameras and photography equipment are another item that I always look for at estate sales. Whether you’re a photographer or a collector, you can often find some great deals. From vintage film cameras to high-end digital equipment, there’s usually something for everyone.
When buying cameras and photography equipment, always check for condition. Look for any damage or wear that could affect the functionality of the item. Also, don’t forget to check if any electronic equipment is in working order – a camera that doesn’t work is usually worth very little.
13. Musical Instruments
Musical instruments are a must-buy for me at estate sales. From vintage guitars to high-end pianos, you can often find some great deals. Even if you’re not a musician, these items can be highly valuable and are usually easy to resell.
When buying musical instruments, always check for condition. Look for any damage or wear that could affect the sound or playability of the instrument. Also, don’t forget to check if any electronic instruments are in working order – an instrument that doesn’t work is usually worth very little.
14. Antique Clocks
Last but not least, antique clocks are a great find at estate sales. Not only can these items add a touch of elegance to your home, but they can also be highly valuable. From mantel clocks to grandfather clocks, there’s usually something to catch my eye.
When buying antique clocks, always check for quality. Look for well-known brands and check for any damage or wear. Also, don’t forget to check if the clock is in working order – a clock that doesn’t work is usually worth very little.