Selling at Antiques
& Collectors Fairs - is another excellent venue and
there are plenty of them around the country.
The
most popular for buying antiques are probably the largest,
such as Newark, and Swinderby in Lincolnshire and Malvern
or Ardingley. However, they may not be the best place to try
to sell; a) because you will have to pay to enter and b) the
trader may not have a great deal of time.
For
selling and especially if you have only a small quantity of
items try selling direct to a local market trader.
Initially;
visit and browse your local antiques fair and try to find
a stand that is selling items similar to yours. Make sure
you get there early, before the trader is too busy to talk
to you. Then approach them and ask them if they would be interested
in buying. Show and then let them handle your item and ask
them for a good price.
Their
first price will probably not be their best so be prepared
to negotiate and make sure you have researched your item and
know what its approximate worth is depending on the condition
its in.
If you don't manage to sell at the first stand, re-pack your
treasure and go on to the next suitable stall.
If you have a larger quantity of items to sell then consider
booking a stand of your own at a local antiques fair.
You should contact fair organisers who will be able to tell
you the procedure for their particular event and make sure
you do so as early as possible as there may be a waiting list.
Check - the antiques
fairs page for dates.
Be
prepared to pay a deposit or in some cases the full amount
may need to be paid up-front if competition for spaces is
fierce.
If
possible try to secure a place close to another stall selling
similar items as this will attract more collectors to that
area.
Ensure
you present your items in the best way and visit the venue
first to check other sellers stands and how they are presented;
take photos if you can and price your items with a discount
structure in mind.
If
you are simply selling in order to reduce clutter then under-cutting
the competition is fine; but if you want to do it on a regular
basis and are buying stock to sell on, then a knowing your
costs and having a good, easily remembered, discount structure
is essential. Every potential buyer will ask for a discount
and you should know to the penny, how low you can go without
losing money.
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