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Over the last several years the flea market and swap meets have become as American as apple pie. According to a recent issue of Swap Meet magazine, over 600 such functions are being held on a regular basis. Most of these are weekend affairs, but more and more are operating every day of the week.

The biggest flea market of them all is the monthly affair held on the grounds of the Pasadena Rose Bowl. Over 40,000 people attend this function, with over 2000 "dealers" selling their wares. Another giant of the circuit is the one held each week in San Jose - the famous San Jose Flea Market. It isn't unusual for 25,000-30,000 people to visit this great function each and every day, rain or shine. It is so popular and profitable for the "dealers" that nearly 50% of the spaces are rented on a permanent basis. At times there is a one or two year waiting list to get a permanent space.

Practically any item imaginable can be - and is - sold at these affairs. Your author has visited several, and talked to hundreds of dealers. The overall average NET INCOME seems to be around $175 per day. Some of the so-called "smart" people are earning as much as $600 per day. Most of the people sell two days per week, while some travel and sell four and five days a week.

Good used merchandise sometimes can be located at the right price at garage sales, local Salvation Army Stores, Goodwill, rummage sales, etc. Check the local factories in your area. Seconds are big sellers at flea markets.

Check the classified ad sections of your newspaper for super sales - going-out-of-business offers and that sort of thing. In this fast-moving market local close-out sales may be your best supply source.