Hobbies And Interests
Preparation
Before beginning a spending spree on antique valuables, perform a little research, decide how much you can spend and make sure you have space available for proper storage. If attending an auction, call the auctioneer ahead of time to find out what antiques will be for sale so that you can research the value of each piece. Numerous books are available to novice antiquarians to help you distinguish valuable pieces from common ones. An antique's value is based on the demand of the item versus the available supply.
Finding Antiques
Antiques can be found where and when you least expect. Search yard and garage sales and estate sales for rare items. Additionally, you might be surprised what you can find stored in your own home, especially items handed down to you from relatives. If these searches leave you empty-handed, try antique shops, auctions or Internet shopping sites.
Classification
An antique item is at least 100 years old or is considered rare by dealers. Newer items that are not in short supply are classified as collectibles. Once you find a piece you are interested in, find any information that reveals its origin, such as the place it is from and its time period. Additionally, note any unusual craftsmanship that might add value to the piece.
Investing
Spending money is often necessary for making money, especially in the antiquing business. Be sure that you are able to resell the item and make an appropriate profit. Consider the time you have spent researching and finding the piece, as well as any traveling expenses. Additionally, consider the condition of the item, such as wear, chips and scratches. Until you are comfortable accessing the value of antiques, consult an experienced antiquarian before purchasing items. For more expensive items, you might consider the services of a professional appraiser.