Resale shops are a great place to find amazing deals. Sure–buying a used crib mattress may not be the best choice, but here are five items that are definitely worth the time and money.

1. 1. Home accessories
   Home accessories like lamps, vases, art, and picture frames are usually overflowing from the store shelves.  Buying these items used is a great way to update your home without blowing your whole budget.  When shopping for new accents, look for versatile pieces that can work double duty. For example, a large vase is the perfect for all seasons since it can be filled with whimsical sand dollars in the summer or brightly-colored holiday ornaments in the winter.
2. 2. Books
   If you have a voracious reading appetite, second hand bookstores could be right up your alley. Used books sell for a fraction of the retail price and with a bit of hunting can be found in good condition. And don’t forget about textbooks either.  Many college students will attest to the fact that a few highlighting marks are certainly worth the discount.
3. 3. Sports gear and exercise equipment
   Buying used sports gear is always a bargain.  Some shops offer discounts as steep as 75% off retail prices. Many sports resale shops sell used exercise equipment too.
4. 4. Kids clothes
   Kids grow out of clothes so quickly that buying new ones can put a serious dent in your wallet. One way to save money is to buy gently used clothes. There are many resale shops that cater to specific age groups no matter how young or old your children may be.
5. 5. Wood furniture
   Quality wood furniture is a bargain shopper’s dream.  Practical pieces like desks, tables, and bookshelves are always rotating through the inventory. Used furniture is more likely to have off-gassed any VOCs, and can be easily refreshed with new hardware or a fresh coat of no-VOC paint.  When picking through the next lot, look for study items that don’t shake or wobble.