A veteran antiques dealer is launching the Homestead Flea Market near Pittsburgh with a grand opening planned for May 21. Iris Ramos, who owned an antiques business in California, has been searching for the right location since she moved to Homestead, Pa., three years ago. She finally found an 800-square-foot storefront for her swap meet in a historic building at 812 McClure St. “I was looking for a larger location, but the building is so beautiful, and the rent is very fair,” she says. “I live in the community, and I hope to make this a place that will serve the neighborhood.”The location features 15-foot-high pressed tin ceilings and fine wood floors. The building has been a martial arts studio and a grocery store. It has room to fit just 20 vendors. “It’s a micro-mini flea market serving Pittsburgh and the local community,” says Ramos.
Space rental starts at $15 for both Saturday and Sunday; the market will be open on those days from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. However, Ramos says she will not charge vendors rent during May. “The first two weekends are free,” she says, “I want to get the buzz out that ‘Wow, there’s a new flea market.’ ’ The grand opening will also feature free antique appraisals. Ramos is advertising on Craigslist to spread the word. For more information, call Iris Ramos at (412) 537-9336.
fleamarketzone.com
March 24, 2011 by Michael Alterio
