My Experience With Antique Stores That Buy Furniture

As someone who loves antiques and vintage pieces, I’ve always been interested in finding the best antique stores that buy furniture. Over the years, I’ve had various experiences with different stores and have learned a lot along the way. In this article, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and providing tips for anyone interested in selling their antique furniture to stores.

The Basics of Antique Stores That Buy Furniture

Antique stores that buy furniture are businesses that purchase furniture items from individuals. They then sell the items in their stores or online platforms. These stores are always on the lookout for unique and high-quality pieces that will attract buyers.

Step-by-Step Guide for Selling to Antique Stores

If you’re interested in selling your antique furniture to stores, here is a step-by-step guide you can follow:

Research antique stores in your area that buy furniture.
Take clear and detailed photos of your furniture items.
Write a description of each piece, including its age, condition, and any unique features.
Contact the stores and send them your photos and descriptions.
Set up an appointment for them to view your items in person.
Negotiate the price and finalize the sale.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Selling to Antique Stores

Here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind when selling to antique stores:

Research and compare prices of similar items to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Be honest about any damage or repairs that have been made to the furniture.
Make sure your items are clean and in good condition before presenting them to the stores.
Consider selling items in sets or collections to increase their value.
Be open to negotiating the price, but also know your limits.
Provide as much information as possible to the stores about the history and provenance of the items.
Don’t be discouraged if a store is not interested in your items. Try other stores or online platforms.
Consider consigning your items to a store for a higher profit margin.
Be patient and don’t rush the process. It may take some time to find the right buyer.
Keep in mind the current trends and popular styles in the antique market.

Pros and Cons of Selling to Antique Stores

Like any business transaction, there are pros and cons to selling your antique furniture to stores. Here are some to consider:

Pros:

Stores have a wider reach and customer base, meaning your items have a higher chance of selling.
Stores may offer a higher price than you would get selling to an individual buyer.
You can sell multiple items at once, making the process more efficient.
Stores may take care of the shipping and handling of the items.

Cons:

Stores may offer a lower price than the item’s actual value to make a profit.
You may have to wait longer to receive payment from the store.
You may have to pay a consignment fee or commission to the store.
You may have less control over the final selling price.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Based on my experiences with selling to antique stores, I would highly recommend doing your research and finding a store that specializes in the type of items you’re selling. It’s important to be honest and transparent about the condition of the items to get a fair price. Additionally, don’t be afraid to negotiate and consider consignment options.

Question & Answer and FAQs

Q: How do I know if my furniture is considered “antique”?

A: Generally, furniture that is over 100 years old is considered antique. However, there are some exceptions and variations depending on the item and its historical significance.

Q: What should I do if a store is interested in my items but I’m not satisfied with their offer?

A: You can negotiate the price with the store or consider selling to a different store or platform. It’s important to know your limits and not settle for a price that you’re not comfortable with.

Q: Can I sell my antique furniture online instead of to a store?

A: Yes, there are many online platforms such as eBay, Etsy, and Chairish that specialize in selling antique furniture. However, keep in mind that you may have to handle the shipping and handling of the items yourself.

Q: How much should I expect to receive for my antique furniture?

A: The price will vary depending on the item’s age, condition, uniqueness, and current demand in the market. It’s important to do your research and compare prices of similar items to get a fair estimate.