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Top Tips When Buying Antique Furniture

Buying antique furniture can be an incredibly interesting past-time – there’s a real sense of pride and skill when you find exactly what you want, in great condition, for a good price. There’s also a lot of pride involved when someone asks you where you got your table or drawer from – and you can tell them honestly and truthfully without being ashamed.

But are there any guidelines or things to look out for when buying antique furniture? Yes there are, and I’m going to go through most of them. Are there any indications of price? How do you know if you’re being ripped off? Let’s find out.

Firstly, an antique is something that is 100 years old. If it isn’t, then you are buying something vintage or a collectable. So you need to find out whether it is in fact an antique. Before you read these tips, remember – if you need something urgently, or you know that the amount of enjoyment you will get from the item is huge compared to the price, well, I suggest getting it.

But if you’re not sure whether it’s worth the price? Well you need to follow some of these tips on judging price.

Firstly, and most importantly, get a good look. If it’s against a wall – move it. If there’s anything on it – move it. Look everywhere, in ever draw, under the table – maybe there’s a gaping hole. If they look offended – walk away. Also, make sure you see it in good light.

Secondly, check if the furniture is stable and if anything is missing. Does it wobble if you sit on it? Does it move when you lean on it? No good. Are there big patches poorly redecorated where something is missing? Check all draws to see if they are working.

Ok now this is a crucial part of buying it. Is it old? Because if it looks very new – assume it’s not an antique. If there are any handles or knobs on it then there should be bits worn around it. If it looks very new, it could just be well finished – but in both cases you need to consult the dealer and probably arrange a cheaper price.

After that, just make sure the dealer is legitimate. Take a receipt, his number, his address, everything.

Ask him everything you have been looking for, how old it is, whether it’s been repaired, etc. After that, make a decision!

By: Imagine
Published: 07/15/08


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    1 Posted Comments:

    @ 10:07 pm 07/20/08 by MagicAkemi
    Great article!

    i never thought that there was so much involved in buying antique furnature. I usually just buy whatever looks good, I guess I'll check everything next time.

    -Magic A
    Reply to this Comment

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