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 platforms available for selling antiques online. You can do a Google search for antique buyers and check each one out until you find someone reputable with lots of references. You can also sell your antiques through platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Craigslist. Some online resale sites charge a listing and/or post-sale fee. Most online resale sites require you to either pay for shipping or charge your customer for it. Some platforms, such as Craigslist, may even require you to personally meet your customer, which can present significant risks and dangers. Many antique sellers go these routes; just be aware of everything involved before you commit.

Selling antiques is a profitable yet tricky business. Antiques hold sentimental and cash value, so proceed with care. Whether you are looking to make a one-time, one-item sale or want to make it a business, you’ll want to take the above suggestions to heart; they are priceless.