Words by Craig McKelvie, Founder & CEO, The BootRoom Collection .

For a lot of people, collecting sports memorabilia is a passion-driven hobby. Usually starting as kids, this hobby often falls by the wayside when other priority focuses such as saving for a car, getting a college degree, or starting a family pop up. But whether it’s baseball trading cards or signed football kits, there’s a solid chance that when you return to your collection, you’re not only excited by the memories, but by the potential.

Here are some tips to get you thinking and help you get back into the world of collecting and trading sports memorabilia.

1. Not everything is worth a spot in your collection

There will always be new things to get your hands-on, so don’t waste time trying to collect it all. Even with the deepest pockets, it’s an impossible task. Similarly to the shoe industry, the market has evolved to incorporate more merchandise release dates of rare items, as well as increased public relations and signing moments. There are too many rare items now and too many pricey ones to realistically have a full Luis Garcia collection, let’s be honest.

2. Some items are very expensive

Yes, prices have risen. But before you start writing the entire hobby off because of the price associated with these types of products, remember that not every product is meant for everyone. There are collectors out there with the means to spend thousands of dirhams on memorabilia without flinching. Luckily, the market is excitingly broad in terms of product and price points, so it’s best to focus on the items that are most interesting to you and suit your pocket.

3. Making Money Isn’t Easy

Some people jump into sports memorabilia collecting and trading with the mindset that it is easy money. While you can make money, you’ll probably find out very quickly that it’s not as easy as buying a signed jersey, selling it, moving onto another and pocketing the profits. Like any industry, those that are most successful at making money look for unique opportunities and are prepared to play the long game taking the time to find the right products that will appreciate in value. They fill gaps that others aren’t filling. It’s important to think critically about your hobby as if it’s your business. If you’re focusing on local collectors, what are their needs? If you’re looking online, what can you offer that’s different?

4. There’s no rush

If you stopped collecting 25 years ago, both the sport and the merchandise are going to look totally different in today’s market. There’s a lot to digest, so be sure to take your time and look around. See what memorabilia is out there and where best to find them. Make a plan for how you want to collect. Connect with other collectors. It’s easy to get consumed and overwhelmed, trying to take everything in at once. Focus on the areas that are your passion and where you can see the opportunity to grow a collection that can eventually become a successful business.