It is the end of the year 2007, it sure went by quickly! I decided that there are some things I must commit to for the coming year – so here are my resolutions for 2008.
When Attending Auctions:
1. I will not let my paddle take over. Much like the old Anthony Hopkins Movie called “Magic,” sometimes my paddle tends to have a mind of its own. It raises up when I least expect it and stays there long after I would have wanted it to! The auctioneer is yelling “going once, going twice, going three times” and it still waves proudly in the air. I am sometimes amazed by its independence. The item is delivered and I sit there with a mystified look on my face. From now on – I am THE BOSS!
2. I will check things over very carefully during the preview. Too many times,
I have won an item only to find that it has a chip or a ding, or was not quite as old as I had presumed. During the time before the auction, I will take notes and be sure to bid on only perfect pieces.
3. I will do as dear hubby says when it comes to my top price. I will make a note as to the highest amount I will bid on said item and will not go above that. I still need to convince my darn old paddle of this concept, however.
When Going to Estate Sales:
1. I will watch for them more diligently. There are several estate sale services in our area that are top-notch. I will try to attend those sales and not worry too much about the two-three other companies that I believe over-price and over-value their merchandise.
2. If I cannot be one of the first 20 people at the sale, I will wait until the afternoon or early the next day. I hate being jostled about, crowded into the rooms and being unable to make a good decision because of the numerous dealers and buyers at these sales. It is not productive at all! By attending later in the day, I have full view of the items for sale and a goodly amount of time to examine them.
3. I will always ask if there is any discount available when I buy multiple items. Even though the policy is to not offer a discount until the 2nd day, they may be willing to consider it.
When Visiting Antique Malls:
1. I will take my time. Why is it that we tend to rush through? There is always a lot to see and since this is not just a hobby but somewhat of a livelihood, I should spend the time needed for a thorough search!
2. I will ask at the desk what their policy is on discounting and if they are 
receptive to ‘bids’ and calling a dealer with our best price offer. This has worked on more than one occasion and it is always a possibility. (Depends on the mall itself.)
When Viewing my Inventory:
1. I will be strong and realize that mistakes made ‘years ago’, may still be mistakes. I must be willing to donate items that are useful, but not often sellable, and to price things lower for our flea market sales. Better to let them go to a good home for a percentage of what I paid for it than gathering dust in my basement.
2. I must be forgiving. To my husband and myself – we do make purchasing mistakes, break things and pass up some incredible finds. But moving forward is the best for all concerned, and you can just admit you are ‘doggone sorry’ so many times!
In retrospect, it has been a most enjoyable year. Visited some wonderful places and found some delightful bargains. Many for our home, many others for sale. Writing the blog for Collector’s Quest has been an incentive to look them over more carefully and share our knowledge and thrill of the hunt with others. I wish you all a wonderful and prosperous new year!
“Gotta Collect? Then You Gotta Connect – Join our Collectors’
Community”
