How to Make Money Selling Antiques and Collectibles

If you have watched the many flea market flip shows out there, you may have been inspired to try cashing on some treasures yourself! After all, what is more inspiring than seeing a person find something at a swap meet, garage sale, or flea market only to find out it is worth hundreds of dollars? I don’t know about you, but it sure makes me want to start scouring my own attic and garage for hidden treasures I may have. Antiques and collectibles are continuing to gain popularity and collector’s are willing to pay top dollar for the right items. What does this mean for you? You can cash in on this craze by selling antiques and collectibles yourself! Below you will find 7 ways to make money selling antiques and collectibles in your own spare time. It is a great way to not only get rid of items you are no longer using or want, but a great way to make some fast and easy cash.

You can play your own version of flea market flip when you sell treasures you find for cash. Take a peek at how easy it is.

How to Make Money Selling Antiques and Collectibles:

1. Scour your attic and garage.
First, see what items you may have in your own home. Perhaps you inherited some pieces that aren’t your taste, or maybe some items were left behind in your home when you bought it. Either way, if it is old, it is worth something. So start searching! You can also visit local thrift shops, garage sales, flea markets, and other second hand markets.

2. Determine age and other important information.
An antique or collectible is traditionally something that was made or sold pre 1970. You can determine the age of your piece by looking for date markings on it or by doing some internet research. You can also head to your local library and browse the assortment of antique identification books located in the “hobbies’ section.

3. Visit eBay!
Now that you found your piece and determined some information about it, you can prepare to sell it! eBay.com is the place many people are deciding to sell these days since you can show your product off to a huge market in auction form. eBay seller fees vary, so be sure to read all of the fine print about what your listing will cost you. Include as much information as you can in your listing as well as multiple photos. Include information about any flaws or damage. Start with a low starting price and don’t forget to include shipping costs and information. Visit ebay.com to get started.

4. Give etsy a try.
Etsy is another online market place that people are using to sell antiques and collectibles. You list it in a flat price format and not an auction, so you can decide your final selling price. Include as much information as you can in your listing as well as several pictures. Etsy listings are only about a quarter each to list, so it is less expensive than an eBay auction. Head over to www.etsy.com to get started.

5. Place a Craigslist ad.
Craigslist has several categories for people to list antiques and collectibles. Craigslist ads are free and appeal to people who live in your community so you don’t need to worry about the hassle of shipping. Just place a free listing on Craigslist in the antiques or collectibles category, include a detailed description and plenty of pictures. Be sure when meeting anyone to make a sale that you take a friend with you, meet in a public place, and only accept cash.

6. Sell directly to an antiques dealer.
“Pickers” are people who sell their treasures directly to antiques dealers. You may not get as much since an antique dealer will need to mark the item up to make a profit, but you can still make fast cash. Contact your local antique shop or antique mall and give a description of the items you have available. Ask them to put you in touch with a dealer who may be interested!

7. Have an estate sale.
If you have quite a few items, why not host your own estate sale? Place an ad advertising the assortment of antiques and collectibles you have to sell and attract dealers and collectors who are willing to pay more. Hold an estate sale just as you would a garage sale, but showcasing the antiques and collectibles that fetch a prettier penny!

Selling antiques and collectibles can be a fun and easy way to turn a little trash into treasure! Start scouring for treasures in your own home or local markets and see what you can turn it into! You just may be surprised. Good luck!