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Thrift and consignment shops can be treasure troves for bargain hunters, but there’s more to the experience than low prices

Becca Mchaffie / Unsplash

Thrifting and consignment shopping can be a great way to save money, but getting the most out of the experience takes a little know-how. The best finds aren’t always obvious, and what looks like a great item may not be worth bringing home if it’s damaged, or incomplete.

There’s also more to these shops than racks of secondhand clothes and shelves of used goods. Some consignment stores carry brand-new merchandise, inventory can change constantly, and certain items may become cheaper if they sit on the shelf long enough. Knowing how a particular store operates can help you shop smarter and avoid missing out on a good deal.