How to find reputable antique shops near you

If you have decided to invest in a quality antique, you want to be sure that the antique shop you buy it from is reputable and sells honestly-priced goods. There would be nothing worse than to find out later that what you had bought was over priced, or worse still, a fake.

Use a variety of research tools

The key to being successful in your research is to do as much as possible. Don't restrict your investigation to one source of information; use a wide a range as possible and this way you have a better chance of finding the right antique shop.

• Friends and neighbours – they will be able to offer advice and recommendations based on their experiences of antique shops
• Yellow pages – this is a great source of information for finding out the name and location of antique shops and more
• Antiques magazines - there are journals and magazines that are dedicated to all aspects of the antiques trade
• The internet – most people begin their searches online as it's the ideal tool for finding out what antiques shops are in the vicinity
• Auction rooms – it is likely that there will be some information here on antiques shops in the area

For what purpose are you buying the antiques?

Think about what and why you are buying. Will the item be for show purposes only, are you giving it as a gift or are you going to use it? Its use will affect how much you spend on the item and even the look of the piece. Making a list of the type of thing you are looking for, what age etc will help you keep focussed when you come to make the purchase.

Pay a visit

There is no substitute for going and actually having a look at a few antique shops. This enables you to look at the antiques for yourself, so that you can check for size, quality and colour. It is also a good opportunity to compare prices and see what is in vogue at the moment; antiques are like anything else in that respect – some years particular types of antiques are popular and sell very well and at other times the reverse. You'll be able to chat to the owner and get some advice at the same time as working out how reputable they are.

Here are Sunnyside antiques in the beautiful Scottish countryside we are always happy to advise and discuss your requirements with you. We specialise in 17th to 19th century furniture and objets d'art and we also offer a fully comprehensive and professional restoration service, including French polishing, cabinet making, veneering and re-upholstery. Call us today on 01899 850 552 to find out more.