Pokémon cards have fascinated collectors for over two decades, and interest continues to grow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, navigating the market to find the right card at the right price can be a challenge. We spoke to Amar Palm, a Pokémon enthusiast and collector with a collection worth over $60,000, to get the best advice when shopping for Pokémon cards – and why Tradera is a great platform to do so.
Tips from an experienced collector
Amar has been collecting Pokémon cards for most of his life, but for the past eight months he’s focused on building a high-quality collection. With thousands of cards and several rare ones, including a Giratina V from the Lost Origin series worth up to $10,000 in mint condition, he knows what it takes to make smart purchases.
“On Tradera, you can find great cards at great prices – but it’s important to know what you’re looking for and how to make sure you get what you pay for.” – Amar Palm
Here are Amar’s top tips for buying Pokémon cards on Tradera.
1. Choose between loose cards or unopened packages
Before you start shopping, decide whether you want to buy loose cards or unopened packs. Buying loose cards makes it easier to find specific collector cards, while buying packs provides the thrill of opening and seeing what you get.
2. Buy from trusted sellers
One of the most important factors is to buy from verified sellers with good reviews. Read reviews from previous buyers and avoid sellers with few or no previous sales, especially if they offer very expensive cards.
“Many stores that sell playing cards have accounts on Tradera. Buying from them often provides extra security.”
3. check the condition and packaging of the cards
The condition of a Pokémon card has a huge impact on its value. Make sure the card is clearly photographed and that the seller describes its condition. When you get it home, inspect it carefully. Poor packaging can lead to damage and greatly reduce the value of the card.
“Packaging is one of the most important things. If the card is not properly protected, it can lose 95% of its value if it is damaged during shipping.”
4. Compare prices and market value
To avoid overpaying, use tools like PriceCharting or apps that show current market values. Pokémon cards vary in price depending on the edition, condition and demand, so always do your research before making a bid.
5. Watch out for fake cards
Unfortunately, there are fake Pokémon cards on the market. Amar recommends being extra careful when buying expensive cards, especially those that are often counterfeited, like Umbreon VMAX from Evolving Skies.
“If you’re not sure what you’re buying, avoid the most expensive cards until you’ve learned to identify the real thing.”
To avoid counterfeits:
✅ Buy from sellers with good reviews
✅ Compare card details with verified images
✅ Check print quality, colors and textures
Amar also shares a TikTok video showing how he identified fake cards: I got scammed on a box of evolving skies 😭😭
6. Have a clear collection strategy
A collection will be both more valuable and easier to sell if it is well thought out. Amar recommends focusing on a specific series or type of card, such as building a Master Set, where you collect all the cards from a particular issue.
“A Master Set is much easier to sell than a mixed collection of random cards.”
Follow Amar on TikTok for daily Pokémon reveals!
Want to see more Pokémon cards in action? Amar opens new packs almost daily and shows off his finds on TikTok. Follow him to get inspired, learn more about valuation, and see the thrill of hunting rare cards: https://www.tiktok.com/@rare.holos
Summary – How to buy Pokémon cards on Tradera
✔ Buy from trusted sellers with good reviews
✔ Check the condition and make sure the cards are packaged properly
✔ Compare prices and use price tools to get a fair deal
✔ Be careful with expensive cards and learn to recognize fakes
✔ Have a clear plan for your collection
By following these tips from Amar and his channel rare.holos, you can safely and smartly buy Pokémon cards on Tradera.
Good luck with your collection!
