A French brocante market is a market where you can find all the little pieces which make up the history of a society. These markets are held on a regular basis throughout France and people are beginning to cash in on the items, taking them back to their own countries to sell for profit. Collectors find a vast range of items at affordable prices, though not everything which glistens is gold. There are ways and means to make the most of the visit, and the maximize your chances of finding those bargains, and enjoying French hospitality at the same time.

*Timing.

*Weather.

*Prices.

*Having the right change.

*Looking for comparative items.

*Being sure you know the genuine item.

*Bartering wisely.

*Last minute bargains.

Timing.

Timing is everything with a brocante. The dealers will always be the first to arrive, and if you can get up early in the morning, you will find a lot more bargains. The French public in general tend to visit brocantes in the afternoon although if you go early enough you can snap up some extra special items from stall holders who are keen to sell, and worried that they may not meet the price they have been asked to pay for their stall.

Weather.

That miserable rainy day is an opportunity. Stall holders will be frustrated by the weather and will part with goods more easily on a rainy day, at prices you can afford. Chances are that the amount of customers will be limited at a brocante which is held on a rainy day. Look for those stalls which are not dealers, since these will be people keen to get rid of items in a one off sale.

Prices.

The prices shown on a stand will give you an indication of whether the owner of that stand is a professional. It is unlikely that professionals will bring their prices down very much, while those stall holders who are less professional will be more flexible with price.

Having the right change.

If you bargain a price down, make sure you have small change. If you do this, and then present the seller with a very large note, you will be frowned upon as being mean. If the seller thinks you are down to your last couple of Euros, they will be more sympathetic and let things go at a cheaper price.

Looking for comparative items.

Before you part with your money, do a round of all the stalls. That item you think is rare may not be as rare as you anticipated and it is always disappointing to find that the same item can be bought at half the price five minutes later.

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