You're not going to get back the full amount of money on your item. In fact, you may not even get back half of what you paid. That's due to the depreciation of the items. Despite what magazines say, clothing and shoes are not investment pieces. Consignment owners usually have years of experience in their field so they will price the items so they sell quickly.

Once the item sells, the money is divided between the store and the item's owner. Most stores offer a 60-40 or 50-50 split so ask before you agree to the transaction. The agreement usually covers a period of up to four months. The item is priced and put out on the floor. If it doesn't sell during that time, it's marked down. If it still doesn't sell, the item can be picked up the owner or it is donated to charity.

We've covered how to sell to a consignment store but how do you buy from one? Generally, it's almost the same as a retail store but there is some leeway.