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.
- 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.
- BE POLITE! Does this need be said? Trust me, after decades fielding questions from behind the counter and via emails, I promise, it needs said. Be humble, you are the potential buyer, not the expert. Telling the buyer your opinion on the price, condition or overall aesthetics of the merchandise will NOT get you a deal.
- Be reasonable. Don’t make insulting offers. If an item is marked at $150 don’t offer $10. I guarantee the shop owner will just think you are an idiot. Sorry, just saying. They know how many miles they put on to find it, how much cleaning they did on it, what they usually sell for, etc. If you feel a huge discount is a possibility, kindly ask, “What is the best price?” If you don’t care for the answer, thank them and leave it at that.
- Do not make an offer you have no intention of taking. Be prepared to get your wallet out and pay if the offer is accepted.
- Keep your offer succinct. There’s no need to explain why you think it should be reduced or to give long sob stories as to why you can’t afford it. Would you do that in Target? Here is a typical offer conversation:
Potential buyer: Hi. Would you be willing to take $60 for this?
Shop Owner: How much is it marked?
Potential buyer: $70
Shop Owner: Yes I can do that.
Potential Buyer: Great thanks!
OR
Potential Buyer: This is priced at $100. Would you possibly take $75?
Shop Owner: Thanks for the offer. I can’t do that, but I could do $85.
Potential Buyer: That would be great. Thank you.
(Or, if not… I appreciate that, but I better not).
6. Show appreciation for the item. Keep in mind most antique dealers are not in the business to get rich. We are not that stupid. We do tend to be sappy, sentimental, lovers of days past. You will have a much better chance of getting a good deal if you tap into the nostalgia gene. Most dealers would love to know the item will be well loved.
Drop me a line if you have any questions regarding the art of making an offer. Here’s the link to my shop. I dare you to make me an offer I can’t refuse.
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