Due to their old age and rarity, antiques tend to have a different market than many other goods. With some guidance from a helpful antique dealer, you can learn more about how to buy and sell these treasures. Based in Russellville, OH, Forsythe's Antiques & Fine Art has become known as the area’s most respected antique specialist. Offering everything from antique lamps to estate purchasing, they have experience at every level of the antique market. To help beginners better understand the world of antiques, they provide several tips on how to buy and sell these older items. 

An Antique Dealer’s Guide to Buying & Selling Old Treasures

Conduct In-Depth Research

For both buying and selling, the most important thing you can do to prepare yourself is to review as much research as possible. By checking out similar or related items online, you’ll gain an understanding of how much your treasure may be worth. You’ll also get a better idea of how rare your antique is. All this information will be invaluable when you’re evaluating how much to pay or ask for the object. 

Assess the Imperfections

You always want to inspect the antique in question as closely as possible. Since you’re dealing with such an old object, there will usually be some imperfections. While in some cases, the flaws are minor and even give the piece some character, the imperfections may lead to a decline in value with other antiques. For instance, a table with a wobbly leg won’t be worth as much. Before making any final decisions, take a moment to evaluate where the antique’s imperfections fall along that spectrum. 

Investigate the Provenance

On the selling end of the antique market, the more knowledge you have about your item, the higher the price you may be able to get, especially if it has an interesting back story. On the buying end, it’s smart to ask as many questions as possible about the antique. Through these inquiries, you’ll learn where the object came from and if that narrative fits into your interests. 

Before you make a move on an antique piece, it’s wise to speak with an expert like Forsythe's Antiques & Fine Art. You can start a conversation with the antique dealer by calling (513) 791-2323. Learn more about the company by visiting their website.