Television personality and AZfoothills.com columnist Nadine Toren is scouring the area, finding savvy Valley features, bringing readers “on the scene.” Every day she’ll introduce you to celebrities, athletes, and give you an inside look into local events and hot spots. She'll touch on topical issues, and keep AZ fans posted on all the big talkers around town.

Attention all shopaholics: this is a must-read for getting the most bang for your buck.

Here’s a newsflash: turns out hunting isn’t a men’s-only sport.  Yep, we ladies love a good chase—but we’re often on the prowl for things other than game (animals and women included).

Today, I’m justifying being a shopaholic, and I’m proud to do so, being one myself.  Here’s the deal: I’m constantly on the search for savvy steals; discounted designer dresses, shoes, accessories, and decor.  Admit it-- I’m not the only one who considers shopping an art; it takes skill to find a good sale.

However, practice makes perfect, and the Valley’s self-proclaimed Garage Sale Gal is dishing her secrets to discovering diamonds in the rough.

“You can find steals anywhere.  All you have to do is keep your eyes open.”

Imagine buying a $15 biker jacket, and selling it online for $372. Believe it or not, Lynda Hammond is proof such things are possible.  In fact, she’s teaching you how to search, buy, and sell simply by frequenting garage sales in her new book, “The Garage Sale Gal’s Guide to Make Money off Your Stuff.”

“It’s a step-by-step handbook; everything you need to know.”

The former New York, Kansas and Minnesota TV anchor decided to escape the news biz when things turned downhill in her career.  To make ends meet, she started scouring garage sales—buying other people’s stuff and re-selling for profit.  Get this: Hammond got so good at rummaging, that she was able to pay her monthly mortgage solely on flipping items.

“The way I see it, Arizona is the garage sale capitol of the world.”

Consider Hammond a professional shopper.  She says garage sale hopping is a sign of the times, and you can actually furnish your house with discounted items found.

Here’s the evidence.  Take a look at the below “very shabby chic” wooden table.  Hammond found it at a local garage sale and took it home for a mere $15.

Like my mother always said, “Seek and you shall find.”