About Us
About Treasures of Bako
Treasures of Bako began the same way every great find does — by recognizing hidden value where others saw only the ordinary.
For nearly a decade, I worked in real estate investment, acquiring distressed commercial properties nationwide and then residential properties in and around Bakersfield, California. I enjoyed the search — identifying overlooked opportunities, solving problems, and restoring potential. Often, those properties came with their contents left behind. Among the clutter and chaos, there were moments of discovery — objects with history, craftsmanship, and character waiting for a second life.
That instinct for uncovering hidden gems never left.
In 2020, during a Saturday morning yard sale run with my family, Treasures of Bako was born. What started as a simple lesson to show my daughter and nephew how to create opportunity quickly became something much bigger. We filled our van, listed our finds, watched them sell, and realized we had tapped into something exciting, profitable, and deeply satisfying.
Because Bakersfield is home — for me, my parents, and generations before us — the name “Bako” felt natural. Local roots, local pride, and a brand that reflects our heritage.
What Makes a Treasure
A treasure isn’t defined by price.
It’s defined by connection.
A treasure is something that sparks curiosity, carries a story, or simply feels special the moment you see it. Some are elegant. Some are whimsical. Some are bold statement pieces. Others are small keepsakes that make people smile.
Every piece we offer is selected because it stood out to us — for craftsmanship, character, design, nostalgia, or intrigue. If it doesn’t feel like a treasure, it doesn’t make it into our collection.
The Hunt
We love the hunt. Early mornings, open roads, unexpected conversations, and the thrill of not knowing what the day will bring. There’s a saying I’ve always liked:
“There are many paths up a mountain — each with different views.”
Treasure hunting works the same way. Some days yield one special piece. Other days uncover several. But with time, consistency, and instinct, hidden gems always appear.
And we never know exactly what we’ll find — which is half the fun.
Bringing Treasures to Life
Finding the piece is only the beginning.
We photograph carefully. We research. We write detailed descriptions. We create presentation videos. We tell the story. Because objects become far more meaningful when people understand what they’re seeing — and can imagine it in their own space.
That moment when a buyer falls in love with a piece?
That’s what keeps us doing this every week.
A Personal Experience
Every order is packed with intention and care. We want your treasure to arrive safely and beautifully — ready to enjoy from the moment it’s opened.
Many buyers communicate directly with me before and after purchase. Some share photos of displays. Some tell us the gift recipient’s reaction. Some are resellers passing the excitement forward to their own customers.
Collectors, decorators, gift buyers, resellers — we value them all. Every treasure continues its story through new hands, new spaces, and new memories.
I’m also the Head Treasure Hunter — and when you use the chat feature on our website, you’re speaking directly with me.
The Weekly Online Treasure Hunt
In addition to our curated shop, we host the Treasures of Bako Weekly Online Treasure Hunt Auction.
Unlike traditional estate-sale companies that liquidate single households, we curate our inventory continuously. Every week, a new collection goes live. New finds. New surprises. New opportunities.
Buyers return week after week because they know:
There’s always something new.
There’s always something unexpected.
And the hunt never stops.
Our Vision
Treasures of Bako is growing into more than a resale business.
We’re building:
-
A recognized treasure-hunting brand
-
A trusted source for collectors and resellers
-
A local pillar in Bakersfield’s creative and small-business community
-
A future studio and showroom space
-
A team of dedicated treasure hunters
Most of all, we’re building something people look forward to visiting — whether online or in person — just to see what new gems have been uncovered.
Because every item has a story, and every week, we get to share new ones with you.
Discovered by Treasures of Bako — Have we got a gem for you.
—
Dylan Conner
Head Treasure Hunter
Treasures of Bako