An expert guide to buying vintage furniture

As the old saying goes, one person’s rubbish is another’s pot of gold. This is definitely the case with antique furniture, as what one person may throw out may look absolutely perfect as the centrepiece in your home.

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Vintage furniture has become increasingly popular over the past 20 years, with a particular interest in mid-century modern pieces that can be mixed and matched with different eras or placed alone as the focal point in a room; either way, the addition of antique furniture lends an element of real soul to any home. What you don’t want in your home though is a vintage heating system. A quick call to a Cheltenham Boiler Service company such as http://www.blu-fish.co.uk will see your current system checked and if necessary a new updated version planned for installation. Here we look at some top tips to help you select the cream of the vintage crop at prices that won’t hurt your wallet.

Expensive is not necessarily better

Owning vintage is just like owning a piece of history. History does not need to be expensive – you can find absolute bargains at car boot sales, house clearances and auctions. Also bear in mind that vintage is usually excellent quality and of solid construction. It has lasted for years and is likely to far outlive that modern dining table you were considering as an alternate. When you look at antique furniture as a lifetime investment, it usually works out to be relatively cost-effective. Don’t be put off by a price that initially looks higher than the modern equivalent – think about the bigger picture.

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Know where to buy

Have your maximum budget in mind and then head out to the auction house. Remember that a piece is worth only what you are willing to pay for it. Bide your time and ensure you get your piece for the price you wish to pay.

Alternatively, check out eBay, ensuring that you can get reasonably-priced delivery of the item you are bidding on. Establish a good rapport with the seller when considering buying antique furniture and ask any pertinent questions before you bid. Remember that according to eBay, most disputes can be resolved via direct communication.

Other good options are antiques fairs, junk shops, and online retailers. Once you have placed your order, you simply need to wait to take delivery of your beautiful new piece of antique furniture, which is virtually guaranteed to make your house feel even more like home.