On the hunt for rare vinyl records but don’t want to break the bank? There are many different places for finding rare and obscure vinyl records for reasonable prices, it sometimes just takes a little extra effort to find them.
In addition to vinyl record stores, which can be on the pricier side when it comes to rare vinyl, your best options are looking at the resources in your area.
This makes the hunt for rare vinyl records more of a game of luck, but if you know what you’re looking for, you may be surprised at where you could find the crown jewel of your collection.
Here are some of the best places to find rare records for cheap.
Where to Buy Rare Vinyl Records for Cheap
1. Estate Sales
Estate sales are a great place to look for rare records because they often have vintage collections that are not available in stores, which increases the likelihood of there being something rare or obscure.
The vinyl records at estate sales are usually priced lower than they would be at a record store or online, making them more accessible to collectors on a budget. You may also be able to negotiate for an even lower cost as well.
In addition, estate sales also provide a unique opportunity to discover new music that you might not have found otherwise.
Estate sales are definitely worth checking out if you have any in your area.
2. Antique Stores
If you’re looking for rare vintage records, antique stores are a great option. Many antique stores have a large selection of vintage records, and the records are often in great condition.
While the prices can be a bit higher depending on the place, antique stores offer a more curated selection and a higher likelihood of finding a specific record that you’ve been searching for.
They may also have other obscure records that you may not have heard of, so they’re a great choice for anyone into older and more forgotten records.
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3. Garage Sales
Garage sales are another great place to buy rare vinyl records for good prices, as it is likely that they have been sitting in someone’s basement or attic for years, forgotten and collecting dust. Many times, if there are any rare pieces, the owner might not even know.
Garage sales are a great place to find deals on vinyl, as sellers are often looking to get rid of items quickly and willing to negotiate, so you may be able to find a hidden gem for cheap there. You never really know what you’ll find at a garage sale, so the next time you see one, consider stopping.
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4. Flea Markets/ Swap Meets
Flea markets, sometimes called swap meets, are an often-overlooked option for rare vinyl. Many vendors at flea markets specialize in vintage items and have a wide selection of records to choose from.
The vinyl prices at flea markets are often reasonable, and you may be able to negotiate for an even better deal.
Flea markets will often have big vinyl collections, so you may have to dig through to find something good, but that’s part of the fun; you never know what you’ll find!
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5. Offerup/ Facebook Marketplace
If you’re looking for something newer or more specific, online markets like Offerup and Facebook Marketplace are solid options for finding rare vinyl records.
Oftentimes, you can connect with sellers in your area and find record options not available in any stores nearby. Sometimes people will put their entire vinyl record collections up for sale at a discounted price on these apps and are often willing to negotiate, so you may be able to score big if you look hard enough.
Offerup and Facebook Marketplace are definitely worth checking out, as you can find deals on vinyl and make connections in your community while expanding your record collection.
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You May Also Be Interested In:
Where to Find Rare Vinyl Records in Westchester County, NY
5 Best Record Stores in Orange County, CA
Beginner’s Guide: How to Start a Vinyl Collection
Cheapest Places to Buy Vinyl Records Online
Best Record Players Under $200
Is Your Vinyl Collection at Risk? Learn How to Store and Protect Your Vinyl Records
I’m 22 Years Old. Here is Why I Started a Vinyl Record Collection
Vinyl Records vs. Digital: Does Vinyl Really Sound Better?
Best Places to Find Rare Vinyl Records for Cheap
About Elijah Cross
Elijah Cross is a 22-year-old writer in Orange County, California. Originally from Tennessee, he moved to Irvine to pursue a career in media in hopes to become an author. In his free time, he enjoys thrift shopping, record collecting, and occasionally skating.
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