Not so long ago the business of buying for resale was a world left to those of us who are professional dealers and shop owners. Daily we would scour the flea markets, garage sales and thrift stores in search of overlooked, under priced treasures, haul them home to be cleaned and repaired and then display them in our retail space.
Well move over professional resale folks, we have been joined by businessmen, stay-at home moms, college students and a barrage of Grandmas! Thanks to eBay, Craigslist and a variety of Facebook options, the field of speculative buying is growing. Thinking you might like to dabble in this venture? It can be a great way to make some quick cash, but know before you start — it has left many a novice with an empty wallet and garage full of items that no one wanted. The first rule of buying for resale is to know what is trending in the current market place. To help you get started, here are three categories that the experts predict will hold strong for 2017.
Vintage fashion is easy to find and the market is holding strong once again this year. Unlike the popular casual styles of the 1970s, this year watch for 1980s glamour. Sneakers in glitter, animal prints and satin are an easy resale, as are bags to match. The color palette that has been dominated by bright colors has given way to beige and pastels, especially pinks and yellows. To accent these pastels, be on the lookout for coats and jackets in large floral patterns.
Toy cars may well be one of the best speculative investments for 2017. Micro Machines made by Galoob (later to become a division of Hasbro) from the mid-1980s through the 1990s are topping the value charts in this category of collecting. Early Tootsie Toys from the 1920s are a good find. These early 20th Century toys and trucks were made with white rubber tires that often became brittle and fell apart. Finding one in good shape is difficult, but worth the search. The most common find will be Hot Wheels. There are a bazillion of these out there, most of which are very worn and of little value. If you are a novice to this area stick with “Redline” vehicles. These were made from 1968-1977 and are easily identified by the red stripe on their tires.
Industrial and Steampunk themes lead the way in home decor again this year.. These items are often found at the country auctions, salvage yards and warehouse sales. Furniture to watch for includes wooden work benches, metal roll around carts and vintage metal shelving. If these are out of your price range, go for accessories like wire baskets, galvanized tubs, random cogs and wheels and almost anything copper. Industrial lighting is HOT, so grab it if you can “buy it right,” especially pendant lamps.
Buying for the purpose of resale is a talent that develops over time. If it is something you have been considering, start small. Select two areas of collecting that interest you, set a investment budget you are comfortable with and get out there and start junkin’. Until next time…Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and the liquidation of estates and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com