How To Buy Collectible Antiques

If you don’t have experience shopping for collectible antiques, the thought of buying them in store or at auction can be intimidating. However, there are several guidelines you can follow when you buy antiques to ensure you get not only a great deal, but an authentic piece. These guidelines include knowing the details of what you need and assessing the antique for any damage. You should also create a budget and know the correct price of a collectible antique before you shop.

Understand the details of collectible antiques

Browsing antiques at auction or in a shop can be rewarding. However, if you are looking for something specific, it is good to understand the details of that type of collectible antique. For example, if you are looking for a chair, consider what size you want and where you will place it. Take measurements of specific areas where you’d like to place an antique table, trunk, or even a lamp. Understanding these details will allow you to know the antique will fit in the space allotted for it.

You don’t want to get home with a gorgeous antique table and chairs, only to find out it does not fit or match your home. Go shopping for collectible antiques with some ideas of what you want to buy, even if they aren’t specific in design. Knowing dimensions and the basics about antiques will help you find what you are looking for.

Assess collectible antiques for damage

Before you buy an antique, even if it is exactly what you are looking for, assess it to determine its condition. You can typically asses auction items before the auction is held. Examine the piece thoroughly for any type of flaw and look for signs of wear, repair, or alterations that may reduce its value. You can ask the dealer questions about the antique, such as owner history, how old it is, and if it has an interesting backstory. The antiques dealer should have some idea of the antique’s history, which may sway your decision about buying the piece, along with its condition and price.

Create a budget and understand the price of collectible antiques before shopping

Before you look for antiques at a shop or at auction, you have to set a budget. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying collectible antiques and before you know it, you’ve spent more than you can afford to. Think about the needs you have as far as buying antiques, and what you can comfortably spend. Consider how much authentic antiques are worth to you and if you can fit antique shopping into your budget.

When pricing collectible antiques, you can do more than simply compare values in store and at auction. It’s a good idea to research antiques and have some idea beforehand what they may cost. It’s also acceptable to negotiate antique prices with dealers and ask for a reduction of at least 10%. Once you and the dealer both agree on a price, buy the item and make sure you get a certificate of authenticity for your antique. Some dealers have many beautiful antiques to offer and you may want to give them more business in the future. Find out if the dealer has a mailing list, get a business card, or trade phone numbers with the the dealer to keep in touch. Keeping in touch with antique dealers may get you a better price in the future.

Are you looking to buy collectible antiques at auction? Call the experts at High Plains Auctioneers at (806) 244-6776 to find out more about auctions and our services. You can also Contact Us by email for more information and view our upcoming auctions.