Mastering Antique Buying: Six Essential Tips from a Pro
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Chapter 1: Understanding Antique Shop Etiquette
With over three decades in the antique industry, I've become quite the authority on the proper manners and etiquette within this unique business. The insights I'll share today could very well help you snag your next vintage gem at a more favorable price. Antique dealers, like myself, prefer to trade with one another because we share a mutual understanding.
A crucial takeaway: "You don't need to be a dealer to negotiate." However, it’s essential to be aware of the unspoken etiquette rules. Here are my six guidelines to help you navigate buying antiques professionally.
Section 1.1: Distinguishing Antique Shops from Retail Stores
It's vital to recognize the difference between a genuine antiques shop and a retail outlet that merely sells catalog items. Shops that feature "wannabe" antiques—such as overly cute decorations, reproductions, or furniture made to look vintage—are NOT true antique shops. They generally won’t entertain offers.
Many modern vintage shops blend authentic antiques with replicas, so aim for a store that features at least 80% genuine antiques. The best establishments are those that don’t lease space to other dealers, as antique malls often hesitate to accept offers since they require approval from the original dealer.
Section 1.2: The Importance of Politeness
Does this really need to be stated? After years of responding to inquiries, I assure you, it does! Approach with humility; remember, you're the prospective buyer, not the expert. Offering unsolicited opinions about the price, condition, or appearance of an item will not help your case.
Subsection 1.2.1: Making Reasonable Offers
Keep your offers respectful. For instance, if an item is priced at $150, don’t insult the seller with a $10 offer. They are well aware of the effort that went into acquiring and preparing the item for sale. If you believe a substantial discount is feasible, simply ask, "What’s the best price you can offer?" If the answer doesn’t meet your expectations, graciously thank them and walk away.
Section 1.3: Be Prepared to Follow Through
Never make an offer you’re not ready to accept. Be ready to pull out your wallet if your proposal is accepted. Also, keep your offers concise. There’s no need to justify your reasons for wanting a lower price, similar to how you wouldn't do so at a big box store.
Here’s an example of how a typical negotiation might unfold:
Potential Buyer: Hi, would you accept $60 for this item?
Shop Owner: What’s it priced at?
Potential Buyer: $70.
Shop Owner: Sure, I can do that.
Potential Buyer: Fantastic, thank you!
Alternatively:
Potential Buyer: This is listed at $100. Could you take $75?
Shop Owner: I appreciate the offer, but I can only go down to $85.
Potential Buyer: That sounds great, thank you!
(Or, if that doesn't work for you... "Thanks for your time, but I’ll pass.")
Section 1.4: Show Appreciation for the Item
Remember, most antique dealers aren’t in it for the money; we’re sentimental enthusiasts who cherish the past. If you convey that the item will be appreciated, you’ll stand a better chance of securing a favorable deal.
If you have questions about the art of making offers, feel free to reach out. Check out my shop—I challenge you to present me with an offer I can’t refuse!
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Chapter 2: Expert Advice from YouTube
In this section, we dive into some valuable video resources for antique dealers.
The first video, "Business Tips for Antique Dealers," offers insights and strategies that can enhance your approach to antique dealing.
The second video, "Antiques Dealer's Top Tips: How to Make Money on a Budget," focuses on practical tips for maximizing profits while maintaining a budget.