(Thread) For those who care, here are a few learning experiences from being back into sports and trading cards for a year now.
1. Don't do hobby box group breaks - This is just buying a lottery ticket. I got lucky early and then lost all the money I made initially ($600+)

If you do group breaks, stick to retail (Megas, Blasters, Hangers) Still like buying a lottery ticket, but it won't break the bank and you can still have fun doing it.
2. Limit how many personal hobby boxes you open. I love ripping hobby, but you rarely get the value you pay for

If you are looking for a fun rip, you can find somewhat lower hobby box prices on lower end products (Topps Heritage, Topps Series 1,2, Update, Upper Deck Series 1, 2, Update, Donruss Football. But don't buy a hobby box if you are in it just to make money.

3. If you can get your hands on retail products, do it. There is great value in ripping open a retail product if you can get it directly from Walmart, Target, Meijer, etc. Don't waste your time paying 5x-10x the retail price on the secondary market.

4. BUY SINGLES - This has easily been the most fun and cost effective strategy for me. For both collecting and investing (which I do both of), this is the easy winner. You can buy the cards you want, and you can invest in the cards you want, without the risk of the unknown.

5. Grade your cards, and be patient. It's no secret grading takes forever, but grading is a great way to keep your personal collection and maximize your investment. I recommend PSA, once they open back up in July.

6. Lastly, have fun. If you aren't having fun, what is the point? If you're just stressed about making a quick buck or hitting a huge card, you aren't enjoying it. Have fun collecting and investing in players that you like. It's a blast.

Thanks for taking the time to read.