A SECONDHAND FLIPPER'S DREAM

Cassette tapes are an outdated media, no question about it. Older than CDs, bulkier, and collecting dust by the crateful in every thrift shop. Despite all that, cassette tapes are experiencing the same revival records went through with the newer generations, raised high by hipsters scouting out new ways to emulate their own brand of ironic coolness.

And, of course, a sought-after hipster treasure can be your gain. I’ll let you in on a secret: for the picker/flipper, cassette tapes are an easy, cheap buy found in the backs of thrift stores – a shoebox full can likely run you less than $10 or so, maybe even less if you hunt in the back of the more off-the-beaten-path thrift stores. Pick up some tapes from more “popular” artists (think popular in the 80s and 90s, hip-hop, or more ‘underground’ artists with a following), list them on eBay or other sites for double (or triple, depending on the artists or collectability value), and pocket your profit.

Not sold on this? Here’s a lot that I picked up a while ago. Sold on eBay for $43.00

pro tips

When there is a trend in the marketplace, like old school media, ride it. BUT be aware of when the trend is dying and get out before it bottoms out.