Antiques and How to Have Them Appraised

Though buying and selling antiques can be a profitable career choice, the majority of people are uniformed when it comes to the antique pieces they have in their possession today.

Many have furniture that has been passed down throughout family and be unaware of the actual dollar value of the pieces they own. Your grandmothers pie shelf that you are using as a plant stand may be worth more than you think.

If you are lucky enough to own some existing pieces or have a love of searching for hidden treasures, it's worth getting a good idea of how to get your antiques in good shape and when to call in the appraiser.


The Main Factors
There are four main factors that you need to consider when it comes to determining the value of an antique.
The history of the piece. The more information you have available the better the value.If your piece was made by a specific woodworker or workshop, it may help increase its value.The rarity of an item. The rarer it is the more valuable it is.The condition and quality of the piece. The design and the craftsmanship used in the making of the item.


Steps You Can Take
Before you present your piece for appraisal, take the time to get it in the best condition possible with a thorough cleaning. It is important to use a cleaning guide specifically for antiques and you must be careful not remove or alter the finish as it may actually lower its value.

There are many of sturdy home cleaners that can do a good job without harming the piece. Use an amalgamator for any water stains and pigmented oil stains to help remove scratches. You can also use a good wax to give its some shine but never use a silicon type spray.

Take pictures being sure to use good lighting so that any special details can be seen. Take pictures from all sides including the any notable features such as armrests, pulls, legs or ornaments. The better the detail, the more accurate the evaluation.

Find a reliable appraiser by contacting antique dealers in your area. If you know of other collectors, ask for their references. You can also frequent organized events such as antiques furniture shows and auctions.

Another option is to send your pictures to a reputable auction house where they will evacuate your item and give you all the necessary information.

In having your piece appraised you can expect an estimate of the amount of money you could receive from a buyer. Keep in mind that the market price of your antique furniture item will be determined by other factors apart from its value.

If you do have antique furniture pieces, it is essential to have them evaluated. Generally, most certified appraisers will not charge you for their services, but there are those who do. You can also research your items yourself with various books, price catalogs and of course online auctions where you can see similar items and the price they have been sold for.

In the end, you can keep your pieces for personal pleasure or you can sell them to add to your nest egg. It really is just a matter of choice.

Got a burning question about antiques and how to have them appraised? Grandpa Gord and Grandma Gertie put a sensible spin on expert advice, with a little humor thrown into the mix. We cover topics ranging from pets to parenting, careers to hobbies, relationships to lifestyle, finances to food, and everything in between.

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