At a recent auction preview at EJ’s Auction & Appraisal in Glendale, several young people looked through the vintage baseball caps.

Several weeks earlier, a collection of vinyl records also attracted young bidders. Many Boomers’ unwanted items could be Gen Z’s new treasures, said Erik Hoyer, owner of EJ’s.

“Many people who are downsizing or liquidating estates often make the mistake of donating or discarding older items that they mistakenly think have no value,” Hoyer stated in a press release. “There’s a new generation of younger bidders who enjoy shopping in the secondary market, and many of them are searching for vintage and antique items at auctions.”

According to a 2022 ThredUP report, 62% of Gen Z and Millennials look for an item secondhand before they buy a new version of it. A 2024 Bank of America survey revealed that more than 80% of wealthy Millennials and Gen Z are passionate about collecting art.

Hoyer said more young people are registering to bid at their weekly online auctions. Some of the items they are seeking include:

• Vinyl records and record players
• Vintage apparel, including baseball caps and concert T-shirts
• Retro electronics, including game consoles and stereos
• Mid-century modern furniture
• Minimalist art and home décor

• Pop culture memorabilia

Hoyer’s son, Garrett, and daughter, Tabitha, help manage the family business.

Many young bidders appreciate the durability of vintage items, which were often made with better quality materials and care than today.

“It’s fun to shop at thrift stores and auctions, especially when you find a cool vintage item at an affordable price,” Tabitha Hoyer said. “Many people my age also have an appreciation for nostalgia and good craftsmanship.”

EJ’s Auction & Appraisal, 5880 W. Bell Road, conducts weekly online estate auctions Saturdays at 10 a.m. and specialty auctions at noon every other Friday For information, visit its site or call 623-878-2003.