For decades, Sales by Helen has been a go-to name in Philadelphia’s estate sale scene, writes Kiki Aranita for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Now run by John Romani, a former Philadelphia schoolteacher, the business focuses on curating and reselling vintage finds online.
Romani, 52, grew up in the business. His mother, Helen, started the estate sale company in the 1980s, and his keen eye for quality was honed by years of sourcing from flea markets, thrift stores, and high-end retailers.
“It’s my full-time job to go to these secondhand stores. These places are my office!” he says.
Romani’s Favorite Thrift Stores on the Main Line:
Goodwill Berwyn
A hotspot for high-end donations, Romani once bought a Pennsylvania impressionist painting for under $100 and resold it for $10,000.
Penny Wise Thrift Shop (Ardmore)
Affordable finds, including quality handbags and clothing, with items sometimes as low as 25 cents.
Bryn Mawr Hospital Thrift
Great for designer clothing, furniture, and fine collectibles like silver and porcelain.
Pro Tips for Thrift Store Success:
Use your phone – Google image search and eBay help verify item value.
Check for quality – Weight, material, and craftsmanship matter.
Act fast – If you hesitate, resellers will snatch up the best finds.
For Romani, thrifting is both an art and a business—and with the right strategy, anyone can strike gold.
Read more about John Romani and his mother’s legacy in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on MONTCO Today in February 2025.
