Remodeling with eBay - 8/14

What You'll Find on eBay

eBay's many categories include plumbing supplies, door hardware, lighting fixtures, and leaded glass windows, just to name a few items. If you can envision it, it's probably on eBay. I've gotten brand new light fixtures (including the bathroom fixture pictured above) on eBay as well as new faucets, sinks, doorknobs, and a vintage medicine cabinet. All were a fraction of the price at the design shops or even the "big-box" retailers. Plus, what's more fun than shopping for light fixtures in the middle of the night?

A Sink and Faucet from eBay

Finding Vintage Building Supplies

In addition to the new offerings, there are a huge range of vintage, salvaged building items, such as windows, iron railings, moldings, and even hardwood floors. Obviously, an amount of research and trust is involved with buying a vintage item, but what a great resource for matching period architectural details on an older house.

Tips for Buying Remodeling Supplies on eBay

It's wise to keep in mind a few things when shopping for remodeling supplies on eBay.

• Shipping - Shipping on heavy items can eat up any savings you may realize on the item's base price. Make sure to keep this in mind, especially with ironwork and heavy wooden pieces.
• Do Your Research - Since you can't see the item in person, it's easy to envision it as the perfect size, shape, and finish for your needs. Don't get caught in this trap. Measure; read; and research your item.
• Don't Rely on the eBay Picture - Some photographers on eBay are better than others. Even the best pictures, sometimes confuse a pewter finish with a chrome one -- or an oak finish with a pine one. Be sure to ask if the item description doesn't spell out the finish.

eBay shopping can be fun and economical. Spend an evening seeing what you can find for your house. I guarantee you'll enjoy it.