Not Estate Sales Or Thrift Stores: The Overlooked Place To Find Prized Items For A Bargain

Thrift stores and estate sales are mainstays for shoppers who are budget-conscious, sustainability-minded, or eager to infuse their homes with character. You can scoop up handcrafted furniture, hard-to-find artwork, and other valuable items at estate sales and thrift stores alike, especially if you have a good eye and some knowledge about antiques. Even if you love vintage bargains, however, secondhand stores aren't always the best choice. To put it simply, there are just some home items you shouldn't thrift, like towels or bedding. To find terrific deals on new linens, dishes, furniture, and

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Liquidation stores range from Ollie's and Big Lots to mom-and-pop bin shops with amusing names such as . Several liquidation store chains are regional players. Whether they're large, small, or somewhere in between, many of these retailers have an that are just as appealing.

Visiting a liquidation store is than a "check off everything on your list" type of shopping trip. In other words, you may want to jot down the general purpose of the items you're hoping to find (say, "den seating" or "home-office lighting") rather than listing specific products from one brand or retailer. If you want your decor to create a certain mood rather than serve a specific function, make a list of brands, materials, or colorways that can help you achieve the vibe you're seeking. For instance, you might want to keep a loose vibe like "buy cottagecore bedding" or "find wicker and linen accents." 

When deciding where to shop, gather information about the types of products different liquidation stores stock. Though many of these outlets carry everything from to , some are known for specific product categories, such as clothing or furniture. Also, research how different liquidation stores' sales and pricing work. Some , while others have a more traditional approach to markdowns. , too.

Mentally you might bring home and familiarize yourself with the store's return policy. Another shopper may have returned that ceiling fan you're eyeing because it's damaged or missing a part, but this information might have been lost on its journey to the land of liquidation.