Shopping Antiques For The First Time? Here's What You Need To Know.

Since you are here, we assume you are new in the world of antiques. First, do you know what antique is? There is no specific definition for antique, but people regard antiques as old, vintage, rare, unique items that are being adored and looked for all around the world. Antiques refer to items that can not be easily found, but today, they are more accessible than you may think. If you were looking for a new piece of antique but don't know where to start your quest, we provide you with a great beginner antiques shopping guide that covers everything you need to know.



Before you start looking for an antique, you should know one key rule: the older, the better. An item older than 100 years is considered as antique, while younger than 100 years as a collectible only. The older the item you found is more likely to be unique and a real antique, not a replica. In your beginner antiques shopping mission, keep in mind to always ask the antique dealer to tell you the history of a particular item. If he/she is able to provide you that information, that is good, if not, think twice.

Antiques are not affordable, so you should be prepared to pay a considerable amount of money for the antique you like. To get a discount, prepare yourself to haggle a bit. Most antique sellers have marked up a specific price they will haggle with the buyer, so if you do not haggle, you will pay a bit more. Beginner antiques shopping can be a long and expensive process, while the  results may not always be as expected. Set a budget and try to stick to it.

The Internet is a good place to start your beginner antiques shopping quest. Cost-efficient, convenient, easily accessible and sometimes many rare antiques can be found. However, there are many antique stores over the world hiding antique treasures. Whether widely recognized or less-known, check out the selection of each antique store in your area, because hidden treasure can be found in the most unexpected places sometimes.

Most beginners are intimated by the fact that antiques are hard to recognize and believe they may be a victim of fraud. To spot a real antique, there are few signs you need to consider. With those signs considered, you can be confident in your antique purchase. One important thing you must know is that antiques are usually not in perfect condition.

However, don't forget that the most important thing in beginner antiques shopping adventure is to explore and have fun.