Collecting might sound like a complicated task, but in reality it’s quite easy once you know the right steps. Once you have your bearings and grasp some fundamental tips, it gets even easier. New collectors don’t have to go through all the hassle of trying to figure out what is valuable and what isn’t. Below you will find some great insight into what it takes to become a successful collector from the very first step onward.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions
When learning a new skill you can get overwhelmed with the number of questions you have floating around in your head, and don't forget collecting is a skill. Don’t be afraid to just ask someone who has been collecting longer than you. You can learn a lot by asking simple questions such as what are some common mistakes people make when collecting? What are some good tips that other collectors use? These are all simple questions that you can ask someone who has been in the business longer than you. The best part about asking questions is you can learn a lot from other collectors. Even if the person you are asking is in a different stage of their collection than you are, they might be able to give you some great advice on how to improve your skills. Collectors are generally kind and helpful people who love to share their knowledge with eager new collectors. Join online groups, forums, and Reddit groups and ask.
Use a valuation guide
When you first start to collect it can be helpful to use a valuation guide such as a actionfigure411, Pop Price Guide, BrickEconomy, or TCGPlayer to get a general understanding of what is valuable and what is not. Some guides are tailored for specific types of items such as sports cards or autographs, so you won't find everything in one place. Be sure to use the guide that is right for you and your level of experience. A good way to gauge this is to see if you have any trouble using the guide. If you are having trouble with a specific guide you might be better off switching to a better tool.
Be realistic with your expectations
When you are first starting to collect there are a lot of expectations that are placed on you. Everyone loves to tell you that you are doing something great but are you truly collecting anything? If you are only collecting for the sake of having a collection that is not very valuable. Be sure to keep your expectations realistic. Collecting is not a get rich quick scheme, nor should it be. It takes time, dedication and effort to become a successful collector. It is important to remember that it does not matter if you have a huge collection of valuable items if you don’t know how to appreciate them. Even the most knowledgeable collector can appreciate the importance of understanding their items. Collectors should not be overly concerned with owning the most expensive items out there. The best way to start collecting is to take it slow and keep your expectations realistic.
Have fun!
Collecting is a very serious pastime and serious hobby. It should be taken seriously and appreciated for what it is, but it should also be enjoyed. The key is to not take it too seriously and to have fun while you are doing it. There is an old saying that goes “If you can’t enjoy it, then don’t do it”. Collecting should be enjoyed and something that you look forward to doing as part of your free time. If you are only doing it for the sake of making more money or because you think you should be doing it, then you will probably end up getting discouraged and quit before you truly get started. Collecting should be something that you do for the love of it.
Stay organised and flexible
As a new collector it can be easy to get overwhelmed and impatient. If you are getting frustrated and getting impatient with your collection then you are not going to end up with a very valuable one. It is important to stay organised, but it is even more important to be flexible. New collectors tend to be very rigid and rigidly follow a set of rules, but this is not necessary. Flexibility is important because it allows you to make adjustments as you go and it allows you to change your mind as you see fit. It might be helpful to try out different methods and decide which one works best for you. It can be helpful to have a few different methods to try out depending on your mood or the way you are feeling that day. It can also be helpful to have a few different methods to switch between depending on the situation or the item you are working on.
Take advantage of the right tools
New collectors don’t have to spend a fortune trying to get their collection going. There are plenty of free and low cost tools that collectors can use. The best advice that we can give new collectors is to use the right tool for the job. If you are looking to value your items try to use an outside source such as an app. If you want to save the paper version of an item try to use a digital app. It’s important to use the tool that is right for you and your level of experience. Use tools that are designed for new collectors, tools that cater to collectors of a certain type of item and tools that are designed for a specific level of experience. There are plenty of different tools out there and it can be helpful to try out a few different ones until you find the ones that are right for you and your needs.
Summary
Collecting can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it is not easy. Collectors need to understand that they need to have patience, persistence and a good understanding of what items are valuable. New collectors also need to stay organised and flexible while they are building their collection. Understanding the tips and tricks below will make collecting much smoother and easier.
