Tips to buy vintage furniture
Having a piece of vintage is akin to owning a piece of history. As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, and second-hand interior finds have become as fashionable as the latest designer pieces. We believe that items with a history bring individuality and real soul to a home. The internet has also created a whole new way of buying vintage – from online auctions where you can bid on anything and everything, to specialist sites run by passionate people who really know their Eames from their Ercol. Vintage items are built to last so, although some may need a little TLC, many pieces will be perfect just as they are with any scratches and scuffs only adding to their personality.
Price:
While there is a perception that antique furniture is expensive, bargains can be found at yard sales, deceased estate sales and online. You also need to consider the value for money side of the equation. Antique furniture tends to be of solid construction (otherwise it would not still be around in any quantity). Will the modern sofa you purchased last as long? If you think of it as a long term investment, antique furniture can be relatively very cheap.
Crafstmanship:
You only have to look at the detail and finish on antique items to see the high level skills of those who made them. Antique furniture is therefore usually beautifully to look at, and, as mentioned above, has most likely a much higher degree of durability than the modern version.
Recycling:
Buying antique furniture has to be the ultimate in recycling. You are buying it from others who have used it for a long time and, as it is likely to last, you will be able to pass it on to others, perhaps to your children.
Priya Sehgal, curator of Wooden Works – an art deco house in Chandigarh recommends:
Know what type of furniture you’re looking for your home or office. Analyse whether you’re looking for mid-century furniture, art deco furniture, porcelain enamel furniture, or any other type.
Once you have decided what to buy, the next step is to settle on a budget. As financials are the main concern in every sale and purchase, make up your mind on how much you are willing to spend to buy vintage furniture.
Conduct online search and find out the stores dealing in used furniture. It is recommended to make a thorough search on this and make a list of all reputable vintage furniture dealers. Don’t fall prey to marketing gimmicks of furniture stores. Even if they offer you more discount on the purchase of a defective piece, don’t buy it. It’s like wasting your money. It is always better to buy furniture that is sturdy and is absolutely in good shape.
Discuss the financials and bargain for the price. The stores charge nearly double their actual price. Don’t settle on the price what they offer you. There is a huge scope for bargaining. Check again before making your payment and make sure that you want to buy only the selected piece of vintage furniture. You still have the option to decline it. If you’re convinced thoroughly, buy it.
Do not offer cash money, negotiate the best price possible for paying by cheque or credit card first. Once you have your card or cheque book ready, ask if there is an extra discount for paying with cash. Almost every seller prefers cash, so use every trick in the book.
Always get a receipt especially from auctioneers or antique dealers. Make sure it states the age, style, wood type, value, and if there was any damage or restoration. This can be used as a guarantee when false or missing statements occur.
Where to buy:
Auctions are a great place to buy. Be very clear about the maximum amount you want to bid – an item is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it, so you may end up paying a premium if another person has their eye on the same piece.
• If you buy on eBay, make sure you can get items delivered (or collected) for a reasonable price. Check descriptions carefully so you are confident about what you are buying. If you are unsure, email the seller and check whether they accept returns.
• Junk shops can be a rich hunting ground for vintage. If you’re looking for something in particular, ask the owners whether they can let you know if anything comes in.
• Antiques fairs are good places to shop for something specific. Do your research and find out the going price for the items from online shops before going to the fairs.’
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