Some of the sharpest bargain hunters I know shop at Estate Sales. They pick up one of a kind heirlooms, antiques, artwork and oddities at a pittance of what they would normally pay at an antique or collectible shop. I have even seen exceptional deals on vintage designer clothing.

But shopping at an Estate Sale is a bit different than shopping a garage sale. Unlike garage and yard sales, which is the junk most people don’t want to keep, many of the items you’ll see at estate sales have been cared for over the years and are still in excellent condition and usually at very reasonable prices.

But first you have to find them. There is always the standard classified newspaper ads. But Southern California has more than it’s fair share of companies that organize and host Estates Sales. Weekly visits to there sites will keep you in the know:

Estate Sales Los Angeles www.estatesalesla.com
Zoe TeBeau Estate Sales and Appraisals www.zoetebeau.com
Barbara Dawson Garage Sale specialist www.bmdawson.com
Sharon Yost Estate Sales www.estatesaleshop.com/

Then there are websites that list both garage and Estate Sales:

Estate Sales.net www.estatesales.net
Craig’s List Los Angeles losangeles.craigslist.org/

You should probably brush up on the kinds of items you are interested in purchasing. A little research on your part, a good eye and some insider know how, will help even a novice shop an Estate Sale like a pro.

First, plan on arriving early. Often numbers are given out early or a line is started to limit how many people are in a sale at one time. The early arrivals get the best goods.

Next, make sure you are prepared. Bring a shopping bag or cardboard box to keeps your hands free and makes it easier to carry around all of your treasures. Also bring along a few tools--A tape measure and tools like a screwdriver, pliers and a hammer--just in case. Know your measurements if you are looking for furniture pieces.

No dawdling! Estate-sale shopping is very competitive. You will be dealing with professional antique dealers and seasoned collectors. If you hesitate, items can disappear right in front of you. Like sample sales, the best bet is to grab the item and make the final decision later.

Don’t forget, Estate Sale shopping is a treasure hunt and you may have to dig through things to find that perfect piece. There will be plenty of unique items mixed in with a lot of junk.

If you are interested in bigger pieces like furniture, light fixtures or appliances, you will need to flag someone in charge down as soon as possible and put a sold sign on the item that includes your name. Until this happens, the item is not yours.

Lastly, if you’re really seriously on the hunt, take enough cash with you to buy it on the spot. Oh and don’t forget a sense of humor. You may be fighting with a senior citizen over some collectible.

Suzanne O'Connor