5 tips to spot a bargain

How to spot an investment piece – top five antiques tips from West Yorkshire dealer, Park Antiques

The antiques world has never been so accessible thanks to the shift to online in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and experts predict the rising demand will continue into 2021 and beyond. That means you can browse antiques from all over the country, or even the world! If you’re a novice collector, though, it can be difficult to know where to start. If you are on the hunt for an investment piece, there are some key things to keep in mind when browsing for antiques, as West Yorkshire antiques dealer Park Antiques from Antiques Boutique explains.

1. Have some key pieces in mind, but keep your options open

We all know how difficult it can be to find something specific, especially when your heart is set on it. But why limit your options? There could be a world of bargains to discover! You might stumble across something you never expected to find that you love just as much, if not more, and for a great price. There are some brilliant online antiques marketplaces that collate pieces from auction houses all over the country.

2. Do your research and build your knowledge

The more you know about what you’re hoping to find, the more equipped you’ll be to spot the best pieces. Read books, look online, speak to dealers – soak up as much wisdom as you can, and you’ll soon be reaping the rewards! Researching new and emerging trends will keep you ahead of the game and give you the best return on your investment.

3. Keep your wits about you

Everyone loves a bargain but remain cautious – especially if something seems too good to be true. If you have concerns that an item could be a fake or a reproduction, then simply ask the seller. They should be happy to help and if not, you can always walk away. If you’ve done your research, you should know some of the tell-tale signs of a reproduction and have an idea of the value of the piece.

4. Befriend trusted online dealers

Not only can dealers share some of their extensive knowledge of antiques and collectibles, but they could also help you to meet other experts and find your very own investment pieces. Better yet, they might be kind enough to offer a discount on items they have up for auction. The auction world is a close knit and supportive community, so you’re bound to be welcomed with open arms.

5. Invest in beautiful and practical pieces

Antiques can offer the best of both worlds. Combine beauty and function by investing in hardwearing pieces made from quality materials. It makes a piece even more special to think about how many owners and families have cherished it before you, the homes it was once kept in, and where it might move on to in the future.

Park Antiques is a dealer at Cullingworth Mill and is proud to be part of Antiques Boutique, our online marketplace for antiques, art, decorative pieces, and vintage items. Antiques Boutique is committed to making the sustainable world of antiques mainstream by encouraging people to invest in well-made items built from quality materials rather than mass-produced poorly made equivalents that are often thrown away. It is the ideal place to source a wide range of period pieces, all in one place, with tens of thousands of items featured on the site.

Go to our home page of Antiques Boutique to browse the items available, from furniture, to art, to home and garden accessories.