Questions from a Youngster

[KMayUSA6060]

Let me preface this post by apologizing for the length of it.

That being said, here we go. My name is Kyle. I'm 21 years of age (22 on Sept. 1st; presents in the form of cardboard are welcome ) from the Akron, OH, area. No, this is not an introduction, just a little background for me and my collection. I collect anything from Jim Thome, Cleveland Browns/Cavs/Indians, and modern baseball, to vintage baseball and even Pre-War baseball.

I attended my 2nd ever National this year in AC, and had a blast. My girlfriend and I met a lot of great people, developing some quality connections. Throughout our time there conversing with different dealers and collectors, many people were shocked that a 21 year old collected vintage/Pre-War (most of my targets at National fell in those categories). I shared with them my reasons for interest in those eras and in certain cards from those eras (ex. T207 Grover Hartley was my grandpa and uncle's manager in the minor leagues in '40 and '39 respectively). While I added some amazing cards to my collection from these great dealers, it made me even more hungry for cards.

I've been bitten by the bug in recent months, constantly wanting to purchase or organize. As a 21 year old, with 21 year old income, the purchasing part is difficult (especially because I'm in the market for an engagement ring, and have been matching any amount of money spent on cards and putting it into an engagement ring fund). Thus leading me to type this post, and consider the following questions.

1) For those who collect, do you fund any part of your collection through flipping?

2) If you don't flip, do you do anything special - other than just saving - to fund your collection?
- For example, I've made and sold pallet wood homeplates to help fund the engagement ring. I'm considering continuing this to fund my collection once I buy the ring.

3) How can you tell if a vintage or Pre-War card is authentic or fake? Graded cards obviously bring more of a premium, yet raw cards can be risky for an uneducated soul such as myself.

4) How do you organize your priorities/wants and stay on budget? Is it as simple as staying disciplined, or are there little tips and tricks?

I'm always looking to learn, especially when it comes to this hobby. Any advice is welcome! Thank you in advance!