by DC Sitnik

Created on: May 25, 2007   Last Updated: August 07, 2009

Want to be a master bargain hunter? Understanding the difference between thrift shops and consignment shops is the first step in helping you find what you are looking for, and getting the best deals!

Thrift shops are stores that sell mostly donated items. So, keep in mind that since they sell donated things, these things may or may not always be in good shape. Some people donate genuinely nice clothing or household goods; however, many people use the thrift store as a place to dump things they can't bring themselves to just throw away. Which means that you often have to wade through alot of junk before you find something you even want to consider buying. And best of all, thrift store prices tend to be rock-bottom low. This is for three reasons: 1) the store received its merchandise for free, so any price you pay, no matter how low, is a profit to them; 2) they are often staffed by volunteers or very lowly paid workers who don't always recognize or know the value of the more valuable antique or collectible items; and 3) since new donations are always rolling in, they are under constant pressure to move inventory. So, with a little perseverance and a sharp eye, you can find real treasures at thrift shops. Keep in mind also that thrift shops tend to reflect their neighborhood, so if you want nicer things, try to find a thrift shop in or near a posh part of town. I dressed my two young sons for the first three years of their lives with thrift shop clothing from a fancy part of town, where I often found new or nearly new brand name clothing and shoes.

Consignment stops are stores which help people sell their used items for a share of the sale price. So, since you have both the shop owner and the owner of the item for sale hoping to make money from the transaction, prices are going to be much higher at a consignment shop than at a thrift shop. However, the quality of the items is also going to be significantly better. Consignment stores are usually where people resell furniture, antique items, or fine clothing. Because of the taboo on wearing the same designer evening gown to more than one fancy occasion, consignment shops can be an absolute treasure trove to any woman looking to find lovely eveningwear at bargain prices. Again, the shop will reflect its area, so if quality is what you want, start in the better part of town.

Treasures abound, if you know what you are looking for AND where to start. Happy hunting!

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