5 Tips On Buying Old Records

So recently my record collection has been expanding. This may sound strange that I collect records when I don't have a record player, but I'm saving up money, and browsing around antique shops looking for the perfect one. I do however have a record player at my house, but it isnt't mine, so I can still listen to records, just not on my own record player. 

Anyways, a couple days ago I picked up some records and thought I would make a mini post about them, because I rarely post. So Todays post is 5 tips on buying old records.

Tip #1: How do I know the record has been protected all these years?

The most important thing is that it has a sleeve on. Why is this important? If a record doesnt have a sleeve/cover it is more likely to get scratched and damadged. Unless you have already tried out the record before buying it, I dont think it's worth taking a chance on. Besides, most of the time the covers can be really cute. Also ask the seller where the records have been stored, and make sure to smell the records for mold or any other fowl smells.

Tip #2: Where do you buy records?

The number one place I see record at is garage sales. Usually garage sales sell them cheeper than record shops, and a lot of times sell boxes of records at a time. Another place you can buy them is second hand shops, or places like salvation army or good will, they sell them pretty cheap too. But I would not reconmend buying them online-too risky.

Tip #3: How much should you spend?

In all honesty, it depends on the record, and the seller. If your buying from an antique shop or a record store, they may charge you a lot more than a garage sale or second hand shop will charge you. When I buy from garage sales or second hand shops I pay anywhere from 10 cents to five dollars. At Antique stores or record stores I pay anywhere from $5-$30, depending on the store and record. Anything above $15-$20 for an old used record is too much in my opinion, but if you want it, I'm not stopping you.

Tip #4: How do I know when the record is from?

If your like me you may like to get records for a certain time period- my favorites 40s,50s, and early 60's. So if you wanted to know when the record was from you could ask the seller, but often times they may no know/remember. You could look for the copywrite date- this is usually what I do to get a for certain answer. Or lastly you could google it, although google usually has the answer to everything, it may not know information about lesser known records.

Tip #5: How do you know if the record is in good condition or not?

The number one thing to look for when inspecting a record is scratches. Minor scratches might not be a big deal, but very deep scratches that are visable to the naked eye could be a problem. Also look for discoloration, and if the record is warped or bent at all.

That's all my tips for now. Hopefully I can make more posts like this where I give tips on buying different antique items. I hope you enjoyed.

Love,

T