Set Collecting Advice for Newbie

[Prof_Plum]

I agree with others in buying the larger lots. But if I could do it over, I'd have started my sets by purchasing the stars/HOF first and then fill in the commons. Most large lots won't have those stars and in the current market the prices for those stars seems to be escalating. i have a couple of sets, for example, that are ~90% complete but with only ~50% of the complete value. Not that monetary value is all important, but for my budget I simply wish I had started with the HOF-types.

[Sean1125]

Don't buy lots.

Don't buy singles.

Buy complete sets.

Any other way is asking for a net loss.

[vintagetoppsguy]

Originally Posted by Sean1125

Don't buy lots.

Don't buy singles.

Buy complete sets.

Any other way is asking for a net loss.

Yes, this.

I'm working on 2 NM 1972 Topps sets. I think they book for something like $1500 each (maybe $1800, I don't have my price guide in front of me). Anyway, there came a point where I realized I had more into the sets than their book value...and I wasn't even finished. So, just for fun, I created an Excel spreadsheet listing each individual card and their individual book value. The total was $4K+ individual book value

So, yes, definitely better to buy complete sets in the condition you're looking for and upgrade as needed (hopefully not too much)...unless you just enjoy the thrill of building a set from scratch...which that is fine too, but you have to realize the cost will be much more significant.

Good luck!