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How to Get a Fair Estimate on an Antique

The first rule of selling antiques is that everyone involved is trying to make money on the deal. You are trying to obtain the best price for your antique, the dealer is trying to reduce their overhead, and a potential purchaser is trying to get the best deal possible. The only way to get a fair estimate on your antique is to be knowledgeable about what you've got, what it's worth, and the best way to sell it.

Instructions

- 1
  Research the history of the antique in specialty publications or on the Internet. You will need to know personally the approximate age and rarity of the item, and remain subjective about its overall condition. Has the antique been refurbished, or is it in its original condition? These are significant points to keep in mind when determining the value of an antique. An item in original condition is worth far more than a refurbished item.
- 2
  Consult a professional appraisal service if you believe you have a significant antique. You may find an objective appraiser through your insurance company if you tell them you are considering taking out an insurance policy on the item. This is particularly useful for large items such as antique cars or furniture, but can also cover other valuable antiques such as rare coins, lamps and jewelry.
- 3
  Look for similar items at online auctions to determine the relative popularity of the item. This determines the current market for the item. If the market is flooded and it appears that no one is buying, the price of the antique will be significantly deflated. If, on the other hand, demand for similar items is strong, you can reasonably ask full market value for the item.
- 4
  Obtain estimates from no fewer than three separate dealers that are in different areas. Some items are more popular in certain geographical locations than others, and will bring a higher price if sold in the right area. If all three estimates are considerably lower than your expectations, you may want to hold onto the piece. This is the second rule of selling antiques -- don't be in a hurry. You might require patience to hold the antique for longer than you wish, but you might get a better price by waiting.
- 5
  Give the dealers you are considering selling to a counter offer that is slightly below fair book value for the item, but higher than the price they say that they are willing to pay. They will attempt to negotiate further. Hold out for the best price possible while keeping in mind that the dealer isn't a charity. He has to consider his overheads and other expenses, and will have to find a buyer for the antique, all of which can be expensive.

Antiques