Finding and buying a good vintage doll or doll items to resell on eBay is not as hard as you may think!  You just need to know where and when to look! This guide will share with you some exciting, yet simple tips to find that doll so you can at least double or triple your return.

LOCAL AUCTIONS!

Going to a local auction can help you find wonderful vintage dolls.  The thing about auctions is, there are a lot of dealers also looking for a good buy.  The nice thing for doll collectors/sellers is the dealers are usually more interested in the antique furniture.  Auctions will generally open their doors two hours before start time which gives you, the doll collector/buyer time to browse and decide ahead of time what you want to bid on.

•   If you know there is someone else interested in bidding on the same dolls you are, get a conversation going with that person.  Many times another bidder and myself have discussed what dolls we liked and agreed not to bid against each other.  That way, you both win. At one Auction there were vintage Barbies and many vintage Barbie clothes. After talking to the other bidder, I won a bag of Barbie clothes for $15.00.  I ended up making a profit on ebay for over $100.00!   
•   After 2 hours or more, attendees at auctions start to tire and leave.  The auctioneer is ready to leave too and at that time items are practically given away, sometimes in bulk. 
• Get to know the staff of your local auction house.  They will sometimes let you know when items of interest will be sold.  Better yet, get on the auction house mailing list. 

FLEA MARKETS

They say the early bird catches the worm!  In this case, the earlier you get to a flea market, the better bargains you may find.

• Flea Market Vendors start setting up as early as 5am.  That means you should be there just as early! You would be amazed at the buyers walking around, assessing,  buying, and leaving with good dolls before the flea market even opens! 
• The last day and hours of a flea market is also a good time to go.  Many vendors like to get rid of as many items as possible and will usually offer you a good deal!

 THRIFT STORES

Thrift stores can have just what you're looking for!  Don't be afraid to dig down in that big box of toys!  You never know what you may find!

• Never go to a thrift store on Saturday hoping to find that special Barbie or American girl doll!  Everyone goes to the thrift store on Saturday!  Tuesday or Wednesday is the best time to go.  Over the weekend you have customers dropping off their unwanted items.  These items will not be ready for buyers until at least Tuesday!  

SCHOOL or COMMUNITY YARD SALE VOLUNTEER

One of the best ways to find vintage dolls or doll items is to volunteer to help with school  or community yard sales!  You will know first hand what items are available and can get first dibs on buying them!

I know this guide is simple

and easy to read along

But if you follow these simple steps

I know you can't go wrong!

Whether it's Barbie or American Girl

Or a doll of another kind

Auctions, Markets & Thrift Stores

Can sell you an awesome find !