What You Should Buy at Estate Sales
25 one of a kind treasures you should hunt at estate sales according to a Grandmillennial who resells and decorates!
The other day I read this inane article on Martha Stewart “10 Things You Should Never Buy at an Estate Sale.” I’m not going to link it because it deserves no special attention. The list assumed us all to be idiots…#6 was chipped glassware for heaven’s sake! While the rest of the list was equally banal, some listings were woefully wrong… #1 was upholstered furniture! I’m just flabbergasted!
I realize I fell susceptible to click bait, but I can’t NOT answer this post with one of my own. Here is a list of what you should hunt for at estate sales from an Grandmillennial antiques reseller and decorator’s point of view. Don’t miss the end of the post because I’ve included 10 things you should buy with caution.
25 Things You Should Buy at Estate Sales:
No. 1 North Carolina made furniture
No. 2 Antique Rose Medallion or Canton – not sure how to tell if it’s antique, read this!
No. 3 Unique jasperware forms – learn more about jasperware here.
No. 4 Seasonal ceramics like Fitz & Floyd Santas or Vista Alegre pumpkins
No. 5 Cashmere or Irish wool sweaters – check for moth holes.
No. 6 Silk scarves – check for a hand rolled edge.
No. 7 Needlepoint pillows
No. 8 Custom drapes in designer fabrics
No. 9 Staffordshire flatbacks – need help to authenticate? Get my Guide to Antiques!
No. 10 Original art
No. 11 Oyster plates
No. 12 Vintage chintz
No. 13 Tortoiseshell glasses
No. 14 Handmade rugs- how do I know if it is handmade? Read this!
No. 15 Chic barware
No. 16 Unique ceramic tureens
No. 17 Handmade quilts
No. 18 Antique brown furniture in good condition
No. 19 Wicker
No. 20 Opaline glass – how do I know if it is opaline? Read this!
No. 21 Coffee table books
No. 22 Brass or silver picture frames
No. 23 Pretty planters or cachepot
No. 24 Garden stools
No. 25 Gilt mirrors
If you feel unsure about determining authenticity for antique and vintage decor, you need my e-book A Grandmillennial’s Guide to Chic Antiques! I discuss 20 different antiques from blue and white Chinese ceramics to wood furniture and sterling silver to quilts. Each entry has information and tips on authentication, cleaning, styling, and quality.
10 Things You Should Buy with Caution at Estate Sales
No. 1 Table linens – take outside in natural light to inspect for stains.
No. 2 Lamps – check to see if they work because it can be a real headache getting them re-wired.
No. 3 Prints – verify they are not digital. If you don’t know how to determine that, read this post.
No. 4 Anything with obvious repairs that would prevent you using it.
No. 5 Silverplate – ask yourself if you are really going to clean it?
No. 6 Teasets – they don’t resale well just FYI.
No. 7 Art frames – unless they are standard sizes.
No. 8 Children’s toys – if you intend to actually use them, material composition can be a real issue. Hello… lead paint, etc.
No. 9 Designer handbags – unless you really know your stuff and feel confident verifying the authenticity.
No. 10 Anything you are unsure of or have mixed feelings about. You won’t be able to return it and chances are it will sit somewhere collecting dust and taking up space.
———-
Well friends, I hope this post inspired you to get out and shop estate sales in your area. I use EstateSales.net to find the best sales in my city.
I do love your lis! It almost lures me out to some sales around here. But we are in the stage of life to be holding sales, not buying! I does help me understand some potential of certain selection of our things. May be worth taking to auction or to sell on line. Thanks for sharing this information
Thanks Linda! So glad you found it helpful!
I have been buying second hand antiques and vintage since the eighties. I agree with both your lists. Thank you for Sharing Katherine! Have a lovely fall weekend. 🎃🌻🍂🍁🍄
Thanks Sheron! That’s a solid endorsement! Happy Fall!