When Should You Start Collecting

It has been way too long since I posted anything here. One last bit of comment on the collecting thread... when should you start. There is no better time than NOW. Prices in all collecting fields are depressed and there are some terrific bargains out there. The general economy has stopped a lot on the regular collectors from shopping in the last couple of years. In addition, many long time collectors are ageing and their shelves are full. In some cases they are downsizing so a lot of very good items are hitting the market. Most of the 30 somethings have not yet developed an interest in and appreciation for for antiques and vintage collectibles (they will) so there is a good supply and not so much demand. If you remember anything about economics you know this adds up to great prices. Shop owners are now willing to entertain offers they would not even have listented to five or ten years ago. This doesn't mean they are going to accept your wildest low-ball offer so do be reasonable. Many if not most dealers have already reduced their prices to stay in line with the current market so they don't always have a lot of wiggle room but if you like something discuss it with them and see if you can come to an equitable agreement. You don't have to make it into an episode of Pawn Stars or Pickers. Just be courteous. We already discussed what you might collect or buy. In this environment it becomes more important to buy things you like. Some of the things out there will most likely recover their value, but some probably never will. How do you know which? The answer is, you don't. It has to do with fashion and decorating trends, current events, etc. Your best bet might be to look at things that have recycled in popularity before. They will probably cycle around again. Some things, especially those with no intrinsic or artistic value, probably never will. Which is which? Who knows. In fact...I would very much like to hear from some of you about what you think will come back in popularity and value and what you think will not. If you want, go buy up all the stuff you think will come back before you tell us about it so you get in on the low prices first. I would be very interested in your thoughts on everything from Victorian furniture to Beanie Babies. Wanna guess which one of these I think has the best chance?