Interested in buying or selling antiques? Follow along with Joshua Kodner Galleries for the inside scoop and to learn the basics. One of the reasons why antiques stores and items have skyrocketed in recent years is the demand for history. From vintage typewriters to old-school ceramics, it’s no secret that nostalgia and uniqueness are sought out intensely and are a hot commodity. But how does someone go about buying or selling antiques? Thankfully, it’s not that difficult. Here is everything you need to know about buying and selling antiques.
What Exactly Is An Antique?
What exactly is an antique, anyway? First and foremost, an antique is a collectible item that is usually valuable due to age and/or condition. Furniture, art, jewels, and ceramics are all considered antiques, as well as knick-knacks and other items. While many different things can be considered antique, not all antiques are of high quality or value. The condition of the antique is always considered, along with its age and story.
Familiarizing Yourself With The Basics
The best way to buy and sell antiques is to first be familiar with them. Visiting auction houses online or in-person is a great way to familiarize yourself with different periods and types of items. Depending on what you want to buy or sell, it’s important to know what items and styles were popular during that time. If wanting to buy or sell gems, knowing the individual names, as well as respective colors of the gemstones, is very helpful. The more auction websites or stores you visit, the more you will learn and recognize antiques. It’s never a bad idea to learn!
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Understanding How To Sell Your Antiques
If wanting to sell any antiques, it’s crucial to understand how to sell your item, whether it be online or in person. It’s important to pick an antique that is not only dated, but in good condition as well. No one wants to buy anything broken, dirty, or useless. If selling your antique online on a website such as eBay, be sure to clean your item as well as you can and take a lot of pictures.
High resolution and well-lit photos are a must when it comes to selling your antique online—buyers want to see your object as clearly and authentically as possible. Before pricing your item, search for other listings and postings of your antique to gauge the price and value. Online auction websites like eBay have thousands and thousands of items—make sure yours is seen! Use a unique title and crucial keywords in your listing as well to get as many people to view your item as possible.
Beware Of Fake Items And Scams
When buying antiques, one risk is buying fake antiques and getting scammed. When shopping on auction websites like eBay, keep an eye out for brand-new profiles and too-good-to-be-true deals. If a rare antique is priced too cheaply, there is a possibility that the antique may be inauthentic. Also, look for seller reviews and be prepared to ask questions. Buying an antique
from a reputable auction house like Joshua Kodner, significantly lowers the risk of being scammed as they are professionals and guarantee the authenticity of their items.
Buy What You Like
One of the great things about buying an antique is that the beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder—even if a particular antique is dated or in a specific style, it doesn’t make the item worthless. Antiques include numerous styles and types of items from all different time periods. No matter how colorful or simple the antique is, there will always be at least one person who recognizes the value of the item. There’s no right or wrong reason to buy an antique—it’s all about the buyer (you). Don’t ever be afraid to go after what you like or want, and don’t settle. There are many different antiques out there—buy the antique that fits you and your needs.
Working With An Antique Auction House
Mom-and-Pop antique shops not doing it for you? No need to worry. Experienced and seasoned auction houses like Joshua Kodner help streamline the antique buying and selling process as well as promote antiques to a large, global audience. Auction house items are more likely to sell at a higher price as they can confirm the antique’s authenticity and price. For decades, Joshua Kodner and his family have led the auction industry in knowledge, credentials, and expertise. With a talented team of gemologists, appraisers, and auctioneers, buying or selling antiques has never been easier. For a personalized quote, please contact us today.
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