Something around every corner!
Looking for a bargain or trying to redo your home? Antique stores are a great place to start and Antique Allure has something for everyone just around each corner of our store!
Shopping at antique stores is a great way to furnish your home in a vintage style but these stores can be confusing for first time antique shoppers. You can use antiques as accents in a modern home or decorate entirely with pieces for a bygone era. Here are some tips when purchasing antiques.
Know the jargon
Understand the terms that antique dealers use. By law, anything labeled as an antique must be at least 100 years old. Vintage collectibles are at least 50 years old. Other terms may not have a legal definition, so watch out for things tagged with terms like collectible, retro, reproduction, or old-fashioned. They may not actually be old or valuable.
Stick with a style
Identify your own needs and desires when it comes to antiques. If you are trying to furnish an older home, decide what style would best suit the architecture. If you are more interested in developing a collection of antiques that don’t take up much space, start researching vintage toys or collectibles small enough to display in a single cabinet or room.
Use a price guide
Learn how to use a price guide before you head to the store. These guides can help you identify specific pieces and determine the price range in which they are normally sold.
Ask questions
Ask the shop owner or manager if he or she specializes in particular styles or types of antiques before you start exploring the store. Also ask if the proprietor belongs to any dealer associations or if he or she is a certified appraiser. The more knowledge and education the seller has, the more likely that person has priced the pieces appropriately.
Examine the piece
Consider the condition of the piece you are interested in. Wear and tear can bring down the price considerably. Look for both normal wear, such as areas rubbed down by everyday use, and more severe damage, such as chips or cracks that have occurred.
Haggle smartly
If you notice flaws, politely ask for a discount on a piece. Not all sellers will agree but if you point out specific reasons why the piece should cost less than a standard price guide state, you may get a bargain. However, don’t insult the store owner or claim that something is not genuine to try to get a deal.
Get it in writing
Before you pay for your new antique, ask the owner about the store’s return policy. Get a written receipt that describes the item and its condition.
