Buying what you like or what sells
I use to buy alot of things that I liked. I was sort of driven to buy those things I found attractive or would go well in my life. Unfortunately what I liked was not always what sold. When buying inventory, now I don’t buy what I like unless its for me. I buy what I Think is trendy or items I have had in the past that did well. I buy classics when I can find them fine porcelain figurines - certain china patterns etc. Items that have withstood the test of time. That means sometimes I buy something that I truly believe is hideoous or that is just not me at all. Those who know us will ask me why on earth did you buy that? I use to make up something to defend myself now I just say because it will sell. End of discussion.
There is a question of market as well - what does well on ebay - may never sell on Ruby Lane or in a brick and mortar store and vice versa. Wish I had a formula to offer but if I did I would not have time to type this blog I would be busy selling everything i listed for 10 X’s what I paid!
You have to make a choice at one point or another are you trying to support your own collection buying items to sell so you can buy more of what you like? or are you trying to run a business. If you are running a business than you have to the homework before going to an auction and still it’s like gambling, it’s a crap shoot - and it’s addictive.