How to Sell Antiques: Terrific Advice from Our Specialists

When it comes to selling antiques, there’s no better source of advice than seasoned antique experts. These individuals, with their wealth of experience in the industry, know exactly how to navigate the world of antique sales. Below, you’ll find invaluable recommendations from these top-tier professionals.

Get to Know Antique Buyers

Just like in any business, understanding your customers is key. Take the time to learn what antique buyers are searching for and meet their needs. Discover where and when they make their purchases, and position yourself accordingly. Even better, identify what they want but struggle to find. When the demand for a product exceeds its supply, you’re in a prime position to make a sale!

Where to Sell Antiques

If you want to sell a large number of antiques at retail, you can do so at a flea market or an antique market, or you can sell antiques online. Just a few antiques can be sold to various buyers. Compare the offers and go with the best. Remember, the best price isn’t always the best deal. It’s important to set a fair price for your antiques, considering factors such as the item’s condition, rarity, and current market demand, as discussed below.

Reputable Antique Dealers

Some antique dealers may make extravagant promises, only to leave you disappointed. Particularly, dealers who appear at flea markets or online may take your item and disappear, or they may persuade you that your antique isn’t worth much when, in reality, the opposite is true.

Know everything about the person or company you are dealing with to avoid scams. A reputable antique dealer will have credentials, a length of time in business, and lots of verifiable references, and they will be happy to provide all that information for you. Look for dealers who are members of recognized antique associations, have a physical store, and are willing to provide detailed information about the item and its provenance. A scam artist will pretend to be insulted when you ask for proof that they are a reputable antique dealer.

Selling Antiques Through a Broker

Many people who sell antiques use the services of a professional broker, who sells the antique item on your behalf. They deduct their fee from the selling price, leaving you with your share. This method can take some time, though. If you are in a hurry to get your money, you might not want to use a broker. The broker will handle all aspects of the sale, from pricing and marketing to negotiating with potential buyers. However, it’s important to choose a reputable broker to ensure a successful and fair transaction.

Generally, brokers can get more for their wares, so your price is about the same as selling it on your own. This type of sale eliminates some huge risks you’ll encounter when selling on your own and saves you time and effort. However, you must work with a reputable broker to avoid losing everything.

Sell Antiques Online

There are numerous places on the internet where you can sell antiques. If you want to know how to sell antiques online, the first step is to search Google for antique buyers and look at each one until you find one that is trustworthy and has a lot of good reviews. You can also sell your antiques on sites like eBay, Etsy, and Craigslist. Remember that some sites that let you sell things online charge a fee to list them or after the sale. You also have to pay for shipping or make your customer pay for it on most platforms. Some, like Craigslist, may even require you to meet your customer in person, which can be risky and dangerous. Many antique sellers do this, but make sure you know what you’re getting into before you do it.

Selling antiques can be a good way to make money, but it’s not always easy. Be careful with antiques because they can be worth a lot of money and have sentimental value. You can sell antiques online for a one-time sale or turn it into a business. Following the tips above will help you move forward with confidence because they are truly priceless.

Turn to Antique Appraisers Auctioneers for expert appraisals and trusted sales—contact us today to get the best value for your antiques.