More on offsite eBay Feedback Tools

The eBay community at large is gearing up for the upcoming changes to the feedback system. Most notably, beginning in May sellers will no longer to be able to leave neutral or negative feedback for buyers.

Another site which has been developed to level the playing field is AfterTheGavel. This rather innovative website has been created as an off-eBay destination to post, and access feedback about buyers.

As set forth on their site:

"AfterTheGavel is for sellers to be able to manage risk for their online auction businesses. As the world of online auctions changes sellers need to know who they are dealing with as buyers as much if not more than buyers need to know sellers. AfterTheGavel.com will serve as a balancing weight to keep this information available to sellers".

The addresses AfterTheGavel.com and LeaveAuctionFeedback.com both point to the same site.

Registration and use of this site is free. Another great tool in your arsenal for the brave new eBay world!

Fine-Tuned Feedback Finder

When you take a look at a prospective eBay trading partner's feedback, and want to view any or all negatives received, it can be a long and tedious process to scroll through many (perhaps hundreds or thousands) of feedbacks to see what the problems &/or comments were when someone left negative or neutral feedback. An easy way to solve this problem is though the website Toolhaus.

Here you can just pop in a user name, and receive a result list of ONLY negative and neutral feedback received.

Toolhaus offers and entire suite of tools related to eBay feedback. Most interesting are the soon to be launched tools to deal with the seismic changes coming to eBay's feedback system next month. While sellers will no longer be allowed to leave negative feedback for buyers, it is posited that sellers will leave text such as "neg" or "negative" in the comment field for the mandatory positive only feedback. Toolhaus has designed a tool to detect such "false positives" as well.

This site is very useful, and plans to continue to evolve to meet the needs of the eBay community. A keeper!

Treasure Hunting on eBay

The informationist in me understands the importance of keyword searching. Computers are a bit stupid in this one respect. Most search mechanisms can only produce results for the exact word you type into a search box. Therefore, if there is a typo in an eBay title or description, the result list will not include that auction. Listings with errors are viewed by FAR less people, and generally will sell for much less then a properly listed item. You may be surprised how many listings on eBay contain such mistakes. How does one find these buried treasures of eBay? You could run multiple searches for every possible misspelling or typo, which is quite tedious and time consuming, OR you can check out the following very cool websites:

The first tool for "sniffing" out such listings is TypoHound.

Type the item or keyword you are looking for into the TypoHound search box and it will generates a search with the following typos:

• Character typed twice
• Character omitted
• Characters swapped
• Key next to correct character hit
• Key next to correct character and correct character hit

Another such tool for your arsenal is Missing-Auctions.com

This tool offers some advanced search options such as limiting a search to a specified category, "buy it now" items, searching both title and description, and more.

Both sites are excellent ways to find extraordinary eBay bargains! Yo ho!

Sidebar

A corollary to "you never know what you might find" at a thrift shop or tag sale, is that you also never know what you might touch. For that reason, lots of regulars have taken to wearing surgical gloves while shopping. This is not a bad idea, but I am not willing to give up one of my senses (one of my superpowers is the ability to identify cashmere, or tell the cashmere content of an item from a quick touch). I solve this problem by traveling heavily armed with hand sanitizer.

If you chose to do so too, remember to look at the label of whatever sanitizer you choose. Some on the shelves, as well has some homemade and organic formulations which can be found on the web have less then the 60% alcohol deemed necessary to kill most harmful bacteria and viruses.

These sanitizers can not replace soap and water, but great for using while in the trenches. When I get home, I still roll up my sleeves and scrub to the elbows as if I am about to perform surgery!

Thrift Shop Roadtrip: HEMPSTEAD, NY

It must be acknowledged that most thrift shops are not in high rent areas. The Huntington stores reviewed previously are a bit of an exception, as rents are generally lower in Suffolk County (for Long Island). Hempstead has a number of thrift shops, but it is not a great area. The informationist in me is acutely aware of the fact that someone is reported shot or stabbed in Hempstead every day (& who knows what isn't reported). In fact, the first stop on today's journey was robbed at gunpoint this year.

My conscience does not allow me to direct folks to these stores without a gentle reminder to always be aware of your surroundings. Also remember to dress down for these excursions. Leave your designer clothing, bags, and especially your jewels at home. I have been frequenting these shops for MANY years without incident. You might want to note that in the photos taken for this post, there is a BMW parked in front of each store. I always notice the number of luxury cars parked at these shops. There is a reason people from all socioeconomic backgrounds are making the trip to Hempstead.

1. SAVERS
188 Hempstead Turnpike
W. Hempstead, NY
516-489-1661
M- Sat 9-9, Sun 10-6

Savers is a huge chain of over 200 thrift stores in the US, Canada, and Australia (Some use the name Value Village). The shop in Hempstead is of the superstore genre. It is fairly clean, has its own large parking lot, and is extremely well organized. Great for everything under the sun- clothing, bric a brac, books, housewares, jewelery, handbags etc. etc.

What is most remarkable about this store is both the volume and the ever changing nature of it's inventory. Savers prides itself on bringing out 5,000 new items every day. This has created a bit of a cult following. Folks who spend all day, every day in the store waiting to see what comes out. It is like a more civilized version of Goodwill Outlet in this respect. Rather then view these folks as crazy, I only wish I had the time to join them. There is a great deal of treasure to be found if you are willing to either dig, or hang out. For example, on this visit I left with a number of mens suits (Zegna, Brioni, & Versace), as well as items from Etro, St. John, and a vintage Pucci tie. Mind you, this was after three hours of digging, and I did not get to check out at least half of the store.

Each week a color tag is 50% off. What does not sell is 99 cents on Monday (store opening on Monday morning resembles "supermarket sweep"-too hardcore for me). There are always many other promotions, and a calendar with a great coupon for each month. The vibe in the shop is great. They have prerecorded music which always has a great beat, and classic sing along tunes- often times everyone on both sides of the rack are singing along as they shop. The soundtrack is unfortunately interrupted by a wacky voiced Savers announcer reminding you that you can feel good about shopping there as these items are purchased from charities such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and further their missions. These interruptions are a small price to pay for tunes that enhance the shopping experience, and are way less intrusive then radio commercials. Frequent announcements reminding shoppers what color is on sale are also appreciated. The staff here is especially friendly and helpful.

The only downside is that there is so much merchandise, the racks are frequently overloaded. Actual muscle is often required to see the merchandise, and scraped knuckles come with the territory. However, I am willing to suffer a bit for my craft. Savers is one of my all time favorite thrift destinations. I was really surprised that readers of The Thrift Shopper blog gave this shop such low ratings. Yes, the prices are inconsistent, but I think it is a function of different people doing their pricing. Any high prices are ameliorated by their many sales and discounts. I think this shop is a "10".

This is presently Savers only New York location. I really miss the shop which recently closed in East Meadow. I read that they have also recently closed their Orlando area shops (bummer-I had been planning a Florida "business trip"). I hope to hit other Savers locations sometime soon. If anyone can share their experiences with Savers in other states (or countries), It would be most appreciated!

CLEANLINESS: VERY GOOD
ORGANIZATION: EXCELLENT
PRICE: GOOD. one color tag 50% off each week. Many promotions.
MERCHANDISE: EXCELLENT
MUSIC: EXCELLENT PRE-RECORDED COMMERCIAL FREE
RETURNS: YES, FOR STORE CREDIT. NO RETURNS ON BOOKS & FURNITURE.

2. SALVATION ARMY THRIFT STORE
194 Front Street
Hempstead, NY
516-481-7600
M-Sat 10-7

This shop does not have very much curb appeal. It is a storefront without dedicated parking, and is next door to a Salvation Army Men's Rehabilitation Facility. It has a rough and tumble, institutional look that might cause some to keep driving. I am glad I stopped. Inside is a medium sized, well stocked, busy shop. Mostly clothing, with a large bric-a-brac section.

The first thing I noticed is that they hang pants and shorts on their side. This seemed very strange until I started to look though them and realized that you do not have to push hangers apart and unhang each item to see the brand and size. A true advancement.

While the location and vibe seems very low rent, the pant labels I scanned when walking the aisle included Tommy Bahama, Polo and Armani. I left this shop with two Saks Fifth Avenue 100% cashmere blazers ($5.99 & $7.99). Not bad. I would say that this shop has true potential, and I would not hesitate to stop in again.

CLEANLINESS: VERY GOOD
ORGANIZATION: VERY GOOD
PRICE: VERY GOOD. one color tag 50% off each week.
MERCHANDISE: VERY GOOD
MUSIC: LIVELY RADIO
RETURNS: NO

Footnote

Friends and readers have been asking why I am sharing my favorite haunts with the world, and wondering if this will adversely effect my business.

The answer is that I really love what I do. For that reason, it is in my interest to make sure that my favorite thrift shops stay financially healthy. As of late, a number of my long time favorites have closed. I certainly do not want to see any other shops meet their fate. The more business these stores realize, the better for all thrifters.

I also say a little prayer for eBay each day- especially today, as I dragged home a few hundred dollars worth of soon to be eBay merchandise. The freedom of self-employment I currently enjoy is closely entwined with the health of eBay. Again, the more folks listing and buying, the better it is for the entire community.

Plus, I am completely confident that there is enough junk out there for everyone!

Thrift Shop Roadtrip: HUNTINGTON, NY

Huntington is the mecca of arts, dining, entertainment, and shopping on the North Shore of Long Island, New York. It also boasts a beautiful waterfront and boating community. This town is one of the few places on Long Island where the streets are still full of people after midnight- more akin to the Upper West Side of Manhattan then suburbia. Amongst this great energy and wealth, comes some great thrifting opportunities. Here are a few I hit today:

1. GOODWILL OF EAST NORTHPORT
1900 Jericho Turnpike
Huntington, NY
631-462-4219
M-Sat 9:30-8, Sun. 10-7

Lovely medium sized free standing store. Borders on swanky Dix Hills. When I arrived, the circular drive up donation area was crowded with luxury cars making donations of overflowing status shopping bags. The caliber of items in this shop are overwhelmingly high end, especially the woman's clothing. Lots of bric a brac, housewares, etc. My favorite find here was a few months ago- an original Trader Vic's Suffering Bastard Tiki Mug. I paid $2.00, and sold it for $230.00. Like a slot player, I continue to return to "play this machine" (return to this aisle) to see if it will "hit" again! This store also seems to get damaged goods, past season, and returned merchandise from Target. This is great. lots of boxed dish sets and small appliances for a fraction of the price. Also the perfect place for sheets and bedding still in original packaging. Certainly worth the trip if in the area!

CLEANLINESS: EXCELLENT
ORGANIZATION: EXCELLENT
PRICE: GOOD. one color tag 50% off each week.
MERCHANDISE: EXCELLENT
MUSIC: LOCAL POP RADIO
RETURNS: YES, EXCEPT FOR SALE ITEMS.




2. ST. VINCENT DE PAUL FURNITURE THRIFT SHOP
1705 Jericho Turnpike
Huntington, NY
631-858-0380
M-Sat 10-6

Noteworthy in that this is a large, freestanding furniture thrift shop. There is a bit of dishware and framed artwork, but it is primarily a big used furniture showroom. There is a constant flow of new merchandise, and items are marked down every month they are in store. In addition to full dining room and living room sets, there are piles of beautiful headboards and mirrors. If you are moving, or redecorating, stop by often. The best merchandise does not last long. If you are quick you can nab a true high end treasure!

CLEANLINESS: EXCELLENT
ORGANIZATION: EXCELLENT
PRICE: GOOD. especially if what you have been looking for has been hanging around a few months.
MERCHANDISE: EXCELLENT
MUSIC: NONE
RETURNS: NO

3. NORTHERN THRIFT
2035 New York Avenue
Huntington Station, NY
631-673-4790
M-Sat 9-8, Sun 9:30-6

Huge freestanding thirft superstore, with its own large parking lot. I am not sure if this store is affiliated with any charitable organization. The employee's did not know if they were affiliated with a charity, and there is no signage to that effect. This shop may be huge, and quite roomy and comfortable to shop in, but the merchandise seems picked through. In all the times I have visited, I have never seen any true, high-end treasures. I have a sneaky feeling that the better items are sent elsewhere. The prices are also quite high. Best for interesting t-shirts and other less expensive items, or look for sale items. Otherwise, it is more of a "retail" priced junk shop. If you have some time to kill, it is worth a visit, but I would not go out of my way to visit this rather soulless store.

CLEANLINESS: EXCELLENT
ORGANIZATION: EXCELLENT
PRICE: FAIR. two color tags 50% off each week.
MERCHANDISE: FAIR
MUSIC: MORNING ZOO
RETURNS: NO

4. COMMUNITY THRIFT SHOP
274 New York Avenue
Huntington Village, NY
631-271-4883
M-Sat 10-4

A lovely, funky, smaller shop, more in the "old school" thrift tradition. This shop benefits Cancer Care, Family Service League, Huntington Hospital, Planned Parenthood, and Visiting Nurse Service & Hospice of Suffolk, Inc. It is staffed by a large group of happy volunteers. Merchandise is always interesting. A great mix of high end old and new. Mostly clothing, but lots of other finds. Prices are not great (I get the feeling that the cadre of volunteers confer and debate what to mark each item at length. Even the tags are written out with great care and detail), but there are lots of one of a kind treasures to be found. Cash only.

CLEANLINESS: VERY GOOD
ORGANIZATION: VERY GOOD
PRICE: JUST OK
MERCHANDISE: VERY GOOD
MUSIC: NO MUSIC, JUST HAPPY CHATTER OF VOLUNTEERS AND OTHER SHOPPERS.
RETURNS: NO










After shopping, treat yourself to a meal or cocktail in this beautiful town.

Thrift Shop Basics

I am almost ready to begin my quest of cataloging thrift shops in this great land of ours, one town at a time. Before I set sail, a few thoughts on how to approach a shopping experience which is part art, part sport.

1. Be Patient. These shops do not perform on command. It is not the shopping excursion for the person who tears a page out of a magazine and takes it to Bergdorf's to buy the whole look top to bottom. You can not expect to find a Chanel bag or Manolo's on day one. However, hang in there. Eventually pretty much everything shows up in these shops.

2. Buy something if it screams out to you. Chances are, you will never find that item again. Some thrift shops, such as Savers, will let you return items for store credit within seven days. Even if you can not return an item, mistaken impulse buys here will generally not dent your overdraft account.

3. Look for quality. Cheap is cheap. We are looking for VALUE. Take a good look at seams, zippers and hems for wear and tear. Hold sweaters and knits up to the light to do an x-ray of sorts for moth damage.

4. Look at labels. A vintage Gucci jacket can also easily be resold on eBay if you change your mind.

5. Do a bit of fieldwork. Find out when the shop brings out new merchandise. Most shops also have sale days. For example, the Savers in my neighborhood runs a half price sale on a certain color tag every Thursday. Whatever has not sold of that color by Monday is 99 cents. There are also Senior discount days, and other special promotions. A bit of fieldwork will get you closer to being awarded your black belt in thrift shopping.

6. Carrying a jewelers loupe or small magnifying glass is not a bad idea. I have fished a number of 14K items out of junk jewelery bins. Also good for reading marks on china and collectibles.

Remember that life may be a journey, but thrift shopping is all about the hunt. Think panning for gold, or playing a slot machine (buy something for a dollar, list it on eBay and see if you hit a jackpot). I hope you all get out there and hit a big one!!