Don't count on finding antique items priced low at thrift stores. Unless the employees are totally clueless, donated thrift store items, particularly furniture and jewelry, are carefully scrutinized and priced accordingly.Don't expect to bargain for a better price. A lot of thrift stores post signs stating all prices are "firm."Do expect to haul away whatever is purchased or pay a delivery fee if the store delivers. Many thrift stores used to deliver locally and set up items for free (or for a small fee), but high gas prices and the bad economy have changed all that.Do indulge in buying broken furniture pieces if one is skilled in restoring and/or refinishing furniture and does not procrastinate in completing the work. The same rule applies to jewelry and even electronics; if it can be fixed and the buyer can do the repair work at a reasonable cost, then the thrift store purchase may prove to be worthwhile.Do consider that vintage items take more than time and money to restore - some things might need parts that are no longer available.Do take into account that some things can be recycled for another use if one is creative and is willing to spend the time and energy.Do understand that some pricier items like large appliances and mowers may come with a 30-day warranty or some type of repair deal. It's up to the buyer to get the information before taking a risk on previously owned motorized or electronic items.Novice buyers are urged to learn individual store policies on returns before setting out to shop. "All sales are final" means nothing can be returned, so inspect items carefully before making a purchase. Experienced thrift store shoppers inspect items, looking for missing parts, stains, faulty workmanship, broken pieces, and so forth. It pays to shop at thrift stores, but only if one is careful and knows a good value from a worthless piece of junk.
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