Who are the reputable resellers? I've only bought & sold some on Tradesy (aka ShopHers). I don't do eBay, though I've sold there years ago.
There are entire threads devoted to this in the Hermes shopping subforum
Anns Fabulous Finds;
Fashionphile; yoogis closet in the US pop up in numerous threads
search Japanese resellers for deals (factor in customs and state sales tax; there are threads on this too)
common names are BrandJFA and Let trade; though you have to read condition very carefully
if you are fortunate enough to get a Paris appt, there are threads on customs and VAT
other TPFers have had issues with European resellers like Collectors Sq, but if you are in Paris, near FSH, it’s my understanding that there are a few reputable resellers in the vicinity
there is also a thread on discuss Japanese resellers; threads on issues with Fashionphile and other resellers
if you find a fixer upper, and are unsure it’s worth it, there is
@docride s Lazarus thread
I engage third party professional spa services; others here stick to H spa. H spa will not spa interiors; bags that are previously worked on; or lighten handles, so that will preclude deals if you limit Aftercare to H.
Personally, I will only look at deals that are structurally sound (handles fully attached; stitching intact; edges of sides in good condition; leather not too dry; and, corners reasonably good shape)
Heritage leather will be easier to refurbish than epsom, but epsom is lighter and can withstand rain.
i personallu would not recommned the Real Real; individuals on eBay; Instagram; or facebook
i don’t recommend Vestiaire, Poshmark, or Tradesy. this is not to say you cannot find legitimate deals. I simply prefer not to take the risk. many here like
Rebag; I found the chat that kept popping up extremely annoying as was the email I received afterwards. i would avoid anyone requiring bank wire transfer or ff t4ansactions. I pay with verified buyer PayPal backed with Amex platinum.
and, I would
always authenticate prior to purchase
many here use
@bababebi
If a deal is too good to be true, it is too good to be true
re handheld bags. A 35 Birkin is extremely heavy even empty. even in my forties, I found it a bit much.
im currently 54, and I think a 30B is also quite heavy empty. Re your post #26 and others, most of your questions are actually answered in other threads. Since the questions reappear here, some of us who are trying to help are also stating obvious factors like weight. A 35 is also much deeper, and many of us find it easy to bang up. Also, I’m 5’2” and size 6-8 US, and a 35 looks like carry on luggage on me.
IMO the beginner intro (posted by
@leechiyong is not outdated; just don’t get depressed if you read about the offers of others.
2020 Note from yours truly: Welcome to the Reading Room. This is an ancient artifact from the early days of the Purse Forum. Many things have changed at Hermès since this list was complied. I have tried to update it (September 2020) but I have also left some of the older threads because there...
forum.purseblog.com
you should also read the San Francisco H thread
, actually my very first love with Hermes wasn’t a Birkin, they were a black CDC bracelet, jumping boots and Evelyn PM crossbody bag. I did, managed to get myself my first Birkin to celebrate my life reaching an age milestone on my birthday (please allow me to keep what age I was as a secret
).
But happy you got your Birkin on your milestone!! 
