If you no longer have the time or space to appreciate your lovely antiques, you may want to consider selling them. And after living with the items for so many years, you surely want to see them go to a loving home. But how? Whether you’re moving to an assisted living community, cleaning out your storage unit, or rearranging your home, let’s explore how to sell antiques.
Identifying Value
First, you’ll need to research your items to learn how valuable they are. Numerous factors, including rarity, condition, and historical significance, can affect an item’s value. Try searching on sites dedicated to antiques, like Ruby Lane, or even just searching on Google. You could also find an antique appraiser or use an online appraisal service like JustAnswer Appraisals, ValueMyStuff, or WorthPoint. If you go this route, be sure to check reviews or ask for references to ensure the appraiser is reputable. Keep notes so that you can set a fair price based on solid research and market demand.
Decide Where to Sell
If you’re wondering how to sell antiques, you’ll be pleased to learn there are numerous options available these days, both online and in person. Your options may depend on where you live and how much work you (or a helpful friend) are willing to put into the venture. The following are some great options:
- Local antique shops
- Auction houses
- Flea markets
- Consignment shops
- Pawn shops
- eBay
- Facebook Marketplace
- Etsy
- Chairish
- Ruby Lane
- Go Antiques
- Bonanza
Many seniors choose to use an antique shop, auction house, or consignment shop to limit the amount of work required. To get started, you only need to call or visit the store to learn more about their selling process. In most cases, you’ll need to bring the item in for evaluation and pricing. Once you agree on a price with the store owner or representative, they can guide you through the next steps.
However, if you wish to reach a wider audience, selling your antiques online may be the better choice. If you take this route, you may want to team up with someone you know who has experience with online marketplaces. In addition, be sure to take high-quality photos of your items, write detailed descriptions (including any damage or wear), price your items competitively, and package and ship your items very carefully. Clearly, this route takes a lot more work, so it may only be worthwhile if you’re certain you’ll gain a solid profit. In addition, it’s often not a great idea for larger or more fragile items that would be expensive to ship.
Keep in mind that whether you choose to use an antique shop, an auction house, or an online marketplace, you will typically be required to pay a sales commission or fee.
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Selling beautiful antique items can sometimes be quite lucrative, so if you have furniture, crystal, china, silver, artwork, or other antique pieces, it may be worth your while to learn how to sell antiques. Your old, unneeded home decor could become someone else’s most treasured possession!
Are you planning to retire in Greenville, South Carolina? Be sure to check out The Gables on Pelham, a continuing-care retirement community that welcomes seniors from all walks of life. We offer flexible and personalized care, including assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. You’ll love our cozy accommodations, fun-filled events calendar, and welcoming community atmosphere. To learn more, please schedule a tour or call us at 864-713-1377.