How to Buy Antiques

Antiques

Many people enjoy owning antiques. Some people like to own them for the pure pleasure they bring. Some people enjoy how they look and the class they bring to a room. Some people like the fact they are valuable. No matter why a person may want to buy them, surely they would enjoy learning more tips on how to buy antiques.

Tip number one:

Start with the easy sells. Look at such buying opportunities as:

Yard Sales

Estate Sales

Flea Markets

Classified ads

Thrift Stores

Many times a seller will not realize that what they are selling is indeed an antique. He/she just may be mistaken in believing that the object is just something that is old, dusty, in need of repair or in need of refinishing. If this is the case, you may get the object at an inexpensive price. Be glad. Don't gloat.

Tip number two:

Don't be intimated by real antique dealers and traders

You can also find many nice antiques at trade shows, antique shops, antique malls, etc. But when you are buying at these types of places, be warned that the seller does know the value of what he/she is selling. For this reason, don't expect to find any great savings. But do expect to find some exceptional pieces. Plus, if there is a certain piece or type of antique you are looking for, the seller may be able to help you acquire it.

Tip number three:

Don't forget online antique shopping.

Just like most everything that can be bought or sold, you can find antiques online. You can find websites for local, state or even antique dealers located out of the country. These websites can offer you advice on finding certain antiques, offer you advice on how to pick the perfect antique purchase and will even show you want antiques they have to sell.

Tip number four:

Learn the basics that tells if something is truly old (and possibly an antique) and look for such features as:

Square nails

Hand stitching

Hand applied ornamentations

Learn some of the styles that go along with such areas as: Art Deco, The Arts & Crafts Movements, and Mid Country Design

The pieces actually look old.

Look for higher quality than you fine in newer pieces (more details such as more decorative accents)

Tip number five:

Learn more about antiques. Read up on them. Frequent museums and many antique dealers. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Learn what you can about the particular style or type of antique the interests you most.

Tip number six:

Buy something you actually like. Don't just buy for the sake of buying something old or antique. Buy something you like. Buy a piece that you think will look good in a particular room. Buy a piece that makes you feel good when you look at it.

Tip number Seven:

Actually examine the piece. Look for signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks. Look to see if the piece needs to refinished or repaired. If the piece does need repair, make sure the seller realizes this. It may lower the selling price for you.

Tip number eight:

If you are unsure of the value of a certain piece, ask for an appraisal.

Tip number nine:

Start small.

Start with one piece. Move on to a couple of pieces. Don't rush the buying process. Keep learning and studying as you slowly grow your collection.

Tip number ten:

Actually, use or enjoy your first sale.

Don't place it in a lock box where you can't see it or enjoy it. Place it on a wall. Place it on a shelf. Just place it somewhere, where it can be seen and enjoyed by all, including you.

Tip number eleven:

When shopping for antiques, dress the part. Don't look too successful or look like you have tons of money. Leave those fancy baubles you love at home. This means leave that fancy watch and those starkly diamonds for another day of wearing. If you look like you have money, the price of the antique pieces may suddenly rise (without you knowing it).

Tip number twelve:

If you are heading to an antique market, remember the early bird catches the worm. Try to show up on the first day and try to be there as close to opening as possible. If you aren't, you may lose the best pieces.

If you follow these tips on how to buy antiques, you may find that antique buying is easier than you first thought and just as fun as you hoped.

Jeffrey Meier at Jam727 Enterprises at http://www.thearticlehome.com blog offers even more detailed information on a wide variety of topics.