Sell a 1940 Dining Room Set
You've inherited a gorgeous 1940 dining room set, an antique from your great-aunt's estate. The set, consisting of a pedestal table and six chairs, has taken up residence in your tiny second bedroom. Although you appreciate the workmanship, you prefer contemporary furniture. You briefly consider calling the thrift shop to pick up the dining room set. However, it's in good condition and most likely has considerable value. If you sell the set, you can use the money to buy the contemporary furniture you prefer, or you can use the money for another purchase.
Instructions
1. Prepare the set for sale. Repair any obvious defects and give the set the best possible level of finish. If you have the resources, have the wood refinished and the hardware refurbished.
2. Determine the dining set's value. Unless you are an antiques expert, don't try to value the set yourself. Consult a local antique dealer familiar with furniture from the 1930s and 1940s. If that's not feasible, use an online appraisal service to obtain an affordable valuation, using photographs you provide. Although these services cannot provide foolproof opinions, the experts have experience with a wide variety of antiques. The appraiser can give you a good ballpark estimate on the set's value.
3. Consign the set at a reputable antique store. If you're not in a hurry to receive the proceeds, the store will provide a good viewing platform for buyers looking for antique furniture. It's also likely that the store has a list of customers searching for specific pieces. In addition, many shops list their inventory on their websites.
4. Advertise the set to a targeted local audience. If you live in an area with many historic homes, a display ad in the local newspaper may pique some interest. Include a good quality photograph and thorough description of the item.
5. Target an online antique marketplace. A brick-and-mortar antique shop provides steady foot traffic; however, an online antique marketplace will greatly magnify the number of potential buyers. Although some online shops are structured for licensed dealers, The Antique & Collectible Exchange (TACE) is open to anyone through a subscription service.
6. Sell the set at auction. If you need to sell the dining set relatively quickly, this option may work best for you. It's likely that your proceeds will be lower than those realized from a conventional sale, and some expenses will be associated with the auction. However, you should have cash in hand in a short period of time.
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