Six Tips by a Veteran Antiques Dealer on How to Buy like a Pro

Learn the Proper Etiquette of Antique Dealing

More than 30 years in the antiques profession, qualifies me to be the Emily Post on manners and etiquette in the business. Today’s tip could help you score your next vintage treasure for a better price. Antique dealers like myself love to buy and sell amongst each other. Why? Because we understand each other.

Here’s a little known fact: “You don’t have to be a dealer to ask for a deal.”

BUT —

You best know the unspoken rules of etiquette. Here’s my list of 6 rules to buy antiques like a pro.

1. Understand the difference between an antiques shop and a retail shop that orders from a catalog. Retail shops that carry “wannabe” antiques like cutesy signs, reproductions or furniture that has been strategically distressed to look old, are NOT antique shops. They will not be friendly to offers. Today many vintage shops carry a line of both authentic and fake antiques. Try to find a shop that stocks at least 80% antiques or vintage finds. The best shops are those that do not rent space to other dealers. Many antique malls frown on offers because the dealer must be called. If you want to give it a try, continue reading and follow the suggested protocol.
2. BE POLITE! Does this…