Being sure you know the genuine item.

If you have a little knowledge of antiques, this helps you to know if you are being cheated. One of the most popular items on a brocante will be porcelain. Look up your values before you set off. This helps you to decide upon a sensible value. Clocks are also inexpensive at a brocante, though check your catalog prices to be sure you are getting a bargain. How old is that piece of lace? Is it factory made or is it hand produced? The difference in price makes a great deal of difference to the value of the item you are buying.

Bartering wisely.

The sellers will expect you to barter, but how you do it matters. The Monsieur who looks jolly and happy may retort as insulted if you try to offer too low a price. Instead of doing this, explain that you love the item and that it is above your price limit and let them take the lead in the negotiation.

Last minute bargains.

It is always worthwhile coming back to a brocante at the end of the day. Here, you will find sellers who are tired by the experience and exhausted at the thought of taking all these items back home. This is a time when you can strike some great bargains. The glassware you saw earlier is difficult to pack up, and the seller may just be happy to get rid of it. Use these moments to socialize with the sellers and to pick up those treasures they don't want to take home with them.

A brocante sale is fun. Much of what you see may not suit your taste, though there will always be something for everyone. Choose carefully, enjoy the French ambiance, the meal at midday, and go home with your treasures, knowing you maximized your experience and bagged those bargains.

Learn more about this author, Rachelle de Bretagne.
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