A Guide to Antique Buying
If you know what you are doing, antique-ing can be one of the most fun past-times! You can fill your home with unique pieces that have character-and usually for a small fee! But it can be overwhelming if you aren't informed! So here are the top 5 things to know when embarking on an antique shopping day.
1. Take Cash
If you use cash, it is more likely to keep yourself on budget. Also, most of vendors won't have enough technology to accept cards, or the desire to accept checks. It is best to have cash on hand just in case.
2. Inspect, Inspect, Inspect
You never want to come home with a piece, only to find that it has a deformity or blemish. Some things are artfully aged, and some are not-so be doubly sure that you have a quality piece before taking it home.
3. Know Your Bargaining Boundaries
If the tag says "firm", DO NOT try to negotiate. If the tag does not, however, say "firm" and you feel the need, by all means try to bring the price down-but don't push too hard! If you anger or irritate the seller, they may not be willing to sell or come down in price at all. Be respectful of them and their product.
4.Revisit Often
If you have the ability and areal advantages, it's worth the trip to revisit these markets and stores often! Prices may change, sales may run, and new items could come in! If you are lucky enough to have a worthy antique buying opportunity nearby-use it!
5. Have a Plan
I would rarely advise buying something unless you have (at least loosely) a plan for it. Antique buying can be addictive, and it would be unfortunate to buy something only to have it waste space in storage. Try not to buy without a plan.
Good luck on your journey!
1. Take Cash
If you use cash, it is more likely to keep yourself on budget. Also, most of vendors won't have enough technology to accept cards, or the desire to accept checks. It is best to have cash on hand just in case.
2. Inspect, Inspect, Inspect
You never want to come home with a piece, only to find that it has a deformity or blemish. Some things are artfully aged, and some are not-so be doubly sure that you have a quality piece before taking it home.
3. Know Your Bargaining Boundaries
If the tag says "firm", DO NOT try to negotiate. If the tag does not, however, say "firm" and you feel the need, by all means try to bring the price down-but don't push too hard! If you anger or irritate the seller, they may not be willing to sell or come down in price at all. Be respectful of them and their product.
4.Revisit Often
If you have the ability and areal advantages, it's worth the trip to revisit these markets and stores often! Prices may change, sales may run, and new items could come in! If you are lucky enough to have a worthy antique buying opportunity nearby-use it!
5. Have a Plan
I would rarely advise buying something unless you have (at least loosely) a plan for it. Antique buying can be addictive, and it would be unfortunate to buy something only to have it waste space in storage. Try not to buy without a plan.
Good luck on your journey!
No comments:
Post a Comment