When it comes to buying antique furniture and decor, it's important that you approach your purchase carefully to get the most out of your investment. Yet, this goal can be challenging to achieve without years of experience as a collector. To ensure that you make the most lucrative choices when choosing investment pieces, avoid these common, costly mistakes.

What to Avoid When Buying Antique Furniture & Decor

1. Skipping Research

Research is one of the most important steps you need to take when buying antique items because it's impossible to make an appropriate offer without educating yourself. If you give the seller a low price, they may take it as an insult and refuse to negotiate with you. On the other end of the spectrum, paying too much for an antique will result in you losing any potential return on your investment.

2. Overlooking Damage

One of the biggest mistakes made with antique purchasing is overlooking damage. For many buyers, it can be easy to become wrapped up in the concept of purchasing an interesting piece, but the value is in the details. Some wear and tear are expected with vintage items, but if there are missing pieces or substantial damage, you need to consider those issues when determining how much it's worth.

3. Underestimating Repairs

If you do come across a piece of antique furniture that needs some work or replacement parts, you need to carefully evaluate how much the repairs will cost. Restoring antiques requires the help of a specialist, and it can be costly. While you may be able to negotiate a lower price for the item, be sure that the total expense of repairs doesn't end up higher than the piece is worth. If you are unsure about the potential increase in value after restoration, speak with an antique appraiser for assistance.
 

Purchasing antique furniture can be a personally and financially fulfilling experience, but it can also be challenging as a novice buyer. Whether you're on the hunt for a particular vintage piece or you want to unload some of your collection, contact Forsythe's Antiques & Fine Art in Russellville, OH, for personalized and confidential assistance. Boasting 125 years of combined experience, the team of antique dealers provides unbeatable knowledge and insight into the world of collector items. Contact the experts today at (513) 791-2323 for more information, or visit them online to learn more about their specialties.