When shopping at the flea market for reduced price merchandise, you must be careful not to get ripped off. More than a business with a brick and mortar store, flea market vendors are capable of getting away with scams more easily. After all, flea market vendors may be there for just one day and then disappear into the world with your money.
Of course all flea market vendors are not scam artists. Flea markets remain an excellent source of inexpensive merchandise. It is recommended, however, to know what signs to look for so you do not get ripped off.
Inspect it First
Before making a purchase, examine the item of interest carefully. Look for repairs or any type and determine for yourself if they are adequate or not. Look for very clean patches on an otherwise dirty piece. This can indicate that area has been modified in some way. Remember to examine all items from every angle and inside and out.
Inspect clothing for holes, stains, and missing buttons or broken zippers. Open up books and see if there are missing pages or highlighter marks. Examine pottery or dishes for chips, cracks, and bad glazing. Make sure what you are being offered is what you are actually getting.
Pushy Seller
Flea market vendors by definition are often a bit pushy to make a sale. This is normal. Beware of overly pushy sellers, especially if they sign the praises of a particular item excessively. If a flea market seller does not allow you to touch an item, but instead holds it for your inspection, you should be suspicious. They may be hiding a flaw.
Testing Products
Any good flea market vendor who deals in motorized or battery operated merchandise will have power on hand to demonstrate that the item works. Of course, an average junk seller might have a lamp or old vacuum and no plug in sight. If you are suspicious, do not purchase the item. You must become good at judging character when shopping at the flea market. When possible, test the particular item you wish to purchase.
Shopping at the flea market is a bargain-lover's dream come true. You can find almost anything for a lot less than you would pay in a regular store. However, flea market shoppers must be mindful of vendors who want to rip them off. Examine items carefully for problems and hasty repairs. Test all items that you can, and avoid flea market vendors who are too pushy. They might be hiding something.
