Have you watched some of those television programs like the "Antiques Roadshow" or "Cash in the Attic" and thought that the antiques business could be "your cup of tea"? This has happened to thousands of others. In fact antiques have been popular for many years, but since this industry has become so heavily advertised it now has more fans than ever before. It seems as though many people long to turn their own "trash and treasures into cash and pleasures".
What is an antique?
This is perhaps one of the most crucial of all questions, and the most difficult one to answer. Antiques should have some type of historical or cultural symbolism which makes them desirable and they should also have some age.
Some people consider anything that is at least 25 years old to be an antique. Others hold firm to the idea that an antique must be at least 50 years old. However the most widely accepted age designates that for an item to be classified as a true antique it must be at least 100 years old. Those objects that are less than 100 years old are more correctly called "collectibles".
What to Look for when Buying Antiques
There are a number of factors that you must keep in mind when you set out to purchase antiques. You need to look at the condition, rarity, desirability and cost.
- Condition is a very important consideration. Some antiques will show a certain amount of wear and tear but cracks, tears and other problems can drastically reduce the item's aesthetic appeal as well as the investment potential. Look for antiques that are in good condition if you hope to make a future profit.
- Rarity of any item can drive up the price, even if the condition is not outstanding. The fewer examples of a book, chair or vase there are in existence the higher the price is going to be.
- Desirability is often a subjective matter. There are many antiques on the market that will probably never become any more valuable even years from now. However if the item speaks to you and you find it appealing that should be a determining factor about whether to buy it or not. Buying antiques should never just be about trying to make a profit. It should reflect your taste, likes and style preference.
- Cost of an antique is another important factor. You must be cautious about prices. Most pricing of antiques allows a little room for "negotiating" to occur. You must have some knowledge about the overall value for any item before you buy it, otherwise you may well pay too much. Remember to be alert for fakes, reproductions and forgeries. There are countries, companies and individuals who are continuing to try passing off fake antiques. If the price is too low, or the condition too good you should always investigate a little further before making a purchase.
Popular Antique Selling Venues
You can sell antiques a number of different ways. Here is a short listing of the most popular places to sell these items today:
- Classified ads
- On line posts
- E-Bay
- Antique Malls and Antique Fairs
- Flea Markets
- Private antique Dealers
- Auctions- local or online
Top Collectibles and Antiques
If you are interested in the antiques and collectible market you might want to begin your buying and selling activities with items that you are most familiar with. Here are some of the favorite collectibles and antiques on the market today:
- Toys
- Glassware
- Pottery
- Costume Jewelry
- Oil Paintings and Water Colors
- Lamps
- Dolls
- Baseball cards
- Autographs
- Guitars
BuyingAndSellingAntiques.net is your source for learning how to buy and sell antiques.
By Adam Curry
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adam_Curry
http://EzineArticles.com/?Buying-and-Selling-Antiques-Can-Mean-Big-Bucks&id=2891551
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