How do flea market vendors find their inventory?

Most vendors build inventory from a mix of sources. Yard sales, estate sales, thrift stores, and local auctions are common, as are buying out storage units, attics, and garages. Some vendors also buy from other dealers or pick up items people are clearing out after a move.

Experienced vendors often develop specialties, such as tools, vintage clothing, or kitchenware, so they know what to pay and what will sell. Many also build relationships with estate sale companies and auctioneers, who may sell box lots and leftover items in bulk at reasonable prices.

If you are starting out, attend local auctions and estate sales to learn pricing, and keep careful track of what you pay and what each item sells for. That record is the best tool for deciding which sources are actually profitable for your booth.