How to buy an Antique Furniture ?

Most people get started collecting antique furniture through inheritance -- You know, an older person in your family passes on and their furniture is passed on to the relatives. Most of the time the passed on goods are not quality antiques, but on occasion great pieces can be procured this way and it is absolutely the cheapest way to get started.

Once you have decided you may have an interest in antique furniture, feed that interest. Visit all types of antiques shops and auction houses. Listen carefully to other people as they discuss a particular piece. Don't' just glance at furniture - watch as experienced people turn it over, feel it and examine it. The more you LOOK and LISTEN, the more you learn.

Becoming knowledgeable about antique furniture takes research, even if you’re focusing on only one aspect of this wide-ranging subject.

• Establish value: Many collectors prefer specific eras, styles, and makers, while others have more eclectic tastes. In either case, an authentic piece’s value is most influenced by its condition, rarity, and history.
• Get an expert opinion: A trained eye is more likely to find an undervalued treasure (or a clever masquerade) than a novice. Stay informed about trends in the antiques market by consulting important trade publications.
• Consider practical matters: Carefully review the size and weight of each antique furniture piece you consider purchasing. Shipping furniture can be a pricey proposition. To reduce these costs, search for eBay sellers in your region. Also, look for sellers who use blanket-wrap shipping services.

Find a reasonably priced piece and BUY IT! This definitely helps feed one's interest. People are often reluctant to become involved in a purchase, but this is the best way to build interest and accelerate the learning process for the next purchase.

Remember, buy what you like and chances are that someone else will like it too when and if the time comes to sell.

This is a list of a few places to begin your search for antique furniture. Our other pages in this area cover these in greater depth.

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• Auctions
• Antiques Shops
• Online Store or Mall like eBay
• Junk Shops
• Fairs & Markets
• Flea Markets