11 Tips for consignment and resale shopping and where to resale shop in Houston

Photo: Lisa Carey 

Out with the old and in with the “old?” Yes it’s true with consignment shopping and resale stores people who used to avoid used purchases now brag about their savings and finds at consignment shops. What can you find at a resale or consignment store? Just about everything from wedding and prom gowns to baby and children’s items.

There are several different types of resale programs. There are consignment shops, resale programs to help non profits or other organizations like churches and here in Houston various parents of multiples organizations (these only happen a few times a year) and then nonprofit stores like Goodwill or St. Vincent DePaul. In Katy there is Katy Christian Ministries http://www.ktcm.org/ and many other areas of Houston offer similar stores.
 

Photo: Lisa Carey

Advantages to consignment and resale shopping:
-you save a bundle of money
-finding something unique or unusual
-most resale/consignment stores are child friendly places
-good alternative for a second play pen, high chair or other items needed at a caregiver or grandparents home
-consignment stores usually have a broad selection of items
-shopping at consignment and resale shops is better for the environment

11 Tips for consignment shopping
1. Make a list both of items you need and a wish list, don’t let unexpected finds get you off track.
2. Take some time to find out what the regular prices are for what you want to buy. Since consignment and resale stores may charge approximately 40-50% of the retail price, the time it takes to do your research helps you find out if it really is a “good deal.”
3. Visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission (http://www.cpsc.gov) for recent recalls.
4. Examine potential purchases carefully, not only for stains, but for small tears, missing buttons, and broken zippers. Check toys and gear to make sure they are in working order and have all their parts. Most consignment shops are particular but some things may be missed.
5. Shop often, merchandise turns over quickly, but that also means that if it is there when you are looking for it you probably should buy it, as next time it may not be there.
6. Patience and persistence are musts! But that also is true of standard stores. How often do you walk right in and buy exactly what you wanted within minutes of shopping.
7. Go ahead and look for name brand items. This is one time where being a snob can really pay off.
8. If shopping at nonprofit sale, get there early if you are looking for those big ticket special items like a crib, furniture, outdoor toys, larger items like play kitchens, and other baby gear. However, many resale shops offer discounts at the end of the month, like Goodwill which offers a half price sale the last Saturday of the month.
9. Don’t plan on shopping “ahead.” Most stores have limited space and very little if any storage so they only offer items that are “in season.” But non profit sales can be the place to purchase ahead, even to picking up a cute little swimsuit in September for the following summer.
10. Take a friend with you. There is safety in numbers and a friend can help keep you from making a spontaneous purchase as well as help you with the tote and carry. Don’t forget to treat them to lunch or Starbucks for helping out. And after all, it’s more fun shopping with a friend.
11. Set a limit. Avoid making purchases you don’t need just because they are a “bargain.” Carrying cash can help you not overspend.

Photo: Lisa Carey

There are many benefits and reasons for shopping at consignment shops and resale programs. Some shop for the bargain, others for the thrill of a treasure hunt. Whatever your reason for shopping one thing remains the same, consignment shopping can save money, no matter what their income level is and most of the time it offers and environmentally friendly way of purchasing what you need for your family.There are many benefits and reasons for shopping at consignment shops and resale programs. Some shop for the bargain, others for the thrill of a treasure hunt. Whatever your reason for shopping one thing remains the same, consignment shopping can save money, no matter what their income level is and most of the time it offers and environmentally friendly way of purchasing what you need for your family.

  For more info: