1. Everyone and their brother collects the art, music, books and memorabilia of dead famous people. The pragmatic (though a bit tacky) collect those things of the nearly-dead. They are the next collectibles, and can almost always be bought for nearly nothing, especially within a 5-10 year window of opportunity. For example: Last year, Kurt Vonnegut died; one of my favorite authors. If you stocked up on paperbacks of his novels in the five years prior to his death for $1 or less, you are currently selling them hand-over-fist at $7.50, even in fair condition. Look at the ages of authors that are not pulp writers, but not yet Pulitzer or Nobel winners; illustrators of classic children's books who are past their prime; aging sports figures, etc..

2. Look at the eras of the current population turning 65 within the next 5-10 years, especially if you are collecting for short-term resale. What were the childhood toys, historical events, clothing and sports fads when they were young? Collect those things for the future. Even if you're wrong, you'll probably be able to get your money back. For example: the current oldsters are baby boomers. They played with hula hoops, Barbie, GI Joe, American bricks. They grew up during the golden age of rock'n'roll, through the days of hippies, idealism, women's lib, and the sexual revolution. Hold onto those bootleg Grateful Dead albums, embroidered peasant blouses, dancing bear bumper stickers, vintage Barbie and GI Joe items, Hot Wheels cars, Star Wars figures, the first edition of William Burroughs Naked Lunch, Richard Brautigan's prose and poetry, and your 1966 Ford Mustang convertible. Toss that can of Billy Beer.

For the future- watch for bumper stickers that say "First Hillary, then Jennifer, then Monica, now US!", Grunge Rock memorabilia, video games, Lord of the Rings items, First editions of Harry Potter, especially from the UK, Dungeons and Dragons scenarios. Lose that singing Loud Mouth Billy Bass plaque.

3. Collect what you like- the standard advice but true. If you are going to collect something, make it something that makes you happy to have and look at. If you like rocks, collect rocks. If you like antiques, collect antiques. Be aware that just because you like it or just because it's old, doesn't mean that it is collectible or valuable.

4. Collect the best example you can afford. If you can't afford the best, get the next best, plan to sell yours later, and with a bit more money, you can afford a better one.  I would rather have a Picasso poster on my wall, than never have a Picasso at all, and I went through 7 Vintage Barbie Theater Date outfits before I finally got the one that I was satisfied with. Don't spend money you don't have to spare on speculation. My ex-husband (thankfully already ex at the time) used his Mastercard to take a cash advance to buy stock on a tip. Need I say more?

5. Curiosity is collectible. Memorabilia from serial killers, porno stars, and pop icons are curiosities, as are disaster-related memorabilia (Titanic, WWII, Kennedy assassination, Hindenberg) and retain a certain value. Sex sells, too. Timing can be everything, though- Anything Anna Nicole was very hot last year, but less so now.

6. Some themes are timeless- animals, spirituality and spiritualism, family, friends, patriotism, humor, jewelry. Some briefly flash to never do so again. Research is very important, and it is a big part of the fun of collecting. What a rush to find out that you have something bought for nothing that now is worth something!

7. If it wasn't hard to find, it wouldn't be so collectible. Be observant: slow down when passing items discarded for city pick-up day, or with a free sign- especially on the more prosperous side of town.

8. Offer to buy out people's clutter- clean out their garages, attics, or cellars for pay or for merchandise- dispose of the garbage; keep or sell the rest. Most of the people who perform this service require a scouting trip before committing to the job- important if you are working for merchandise so you don't get stuck with taking out the trash and assuming the dump fees. Also important for working for pay- you need to check on the level of mildew, mold, or rodent involvement. It isn't much of a bargain if you end up with a deadly disease. A mask is probably a good idea, anyway.

9. Keep an eye on the newspaper for estate sales and auctions. Know what things are worth, however, because estate sales aren't necessarily for clearing out an estate; they also function to settle estates for  heirs; they are aware of what items are worth, too. Auctions are fun- use the same caution you do on eBay; keep in mind that auctioneers are very experienced at assessing value; watch what they start the bidding at. Be careful not to get caught up in the heat of the moment and spend too much money.

10. Don't ignore the fixable, especially if you're Mr. or Ms. Fix-it. A book with a broken spine or furniture can be repaired with the right glue; a vehicle can be repaired.

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