Information is power when collecting antiques

As with most things in life, information is power. Perhaps more than in any other marketplace, when buying antiques and collectables, it can be difficult to know if you are getting a good deal or not. Condition, history, age, authenticity and desirability can all affect the value of an item. Supply and demand will have an effect; the more people want something in limited supply, the higher the price. So do your homework beforehand. Miller’s have a free membership club providing a very useful source of practical information on buying and selling.

Collectors’ fairs are popular, ranging from local village hall events, to large exhibition centres and county show grounds. Specialist fairs, focusing on one collecting area, such as records or books, will naturally attract dealers. Whilst you are more likely to find a special item, and bargains can be had, they are not the norm. If you are just starting out, smaller fairs can offer a more friendly and relaxing environment.

Datelined fairs only allow dealers to sell stock made before a certain year, and stands are inspected by experts to ensure age and quality is accurately described. A good example is the Antiques for Everyone Fair, held at the Birmingham NEC, three times a year, the next one being 31^st Oct. – 3^rd Nov. Stock is datelined to 1950 or earlier, and the fair provides an exceptional choice of high quality antiques at all price levels, with as many as 50,000 items on sale. For dealers it is a business, and they may have travelled some distance to be there. So, while haggling is expected many dealers will be regulars and will want to maintain a good reputation, developing relationships with their customers.

Antiques centres can offer a wide choice, but with one difference, the stock will be there, but not the seller. These centres employ their own staff and make money by renting out space to dealers, collecting a commission on sales. Do bear in mind that the staff can’t be knowledgeable about all of the stock and are unlikely to be experts.

While buying online is increasingly popular and can have its advantages, it really is a case of ‘buyer beware’.