What is the best way to research antiques online?

Question

I am in the process of cleaning out my parents house containing 50 years worth of "stuff" and I don't know what might be valuable as antiques.

Answer 1

If you don't know anything about the items, you shouldn't try to deal them yourself. With many antiques, furniture especially, it's very difficult to tell the good from the great, and the real from the fake. If there is documentation of purchase for any of the items, at least you have a place to start. You should try to find a reputable dealer, who can take the items on consignment for you. Look in the local yellow pages under Antiques, and then check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer protection agency to verify that the dealer you choose is in good standing. If you have pieces you suspect are really valuable, get them appraised by someone who doesn't have an interest in buying them.

Answer 2

First of all, God bless you, and I hope you discover something spectacular!
Second, this will take more than simple on-line research to get the most out of what you may have.
And third, do NOT take the word of just anyone who claims to be "an antique dealer", (on or off line). Yes, they may sound a bit knowledgeable, to some degree... And yes, they may very well be "nice", even charming, likeable, and friendly, (as most cons are...) ~NOT to say that ALL are cons/ theives/ dishonest/ unbelievably ignorant/ blind/ closed-minded!/ full of hot air & fluff... (you get the point)... but, it only takes ONE convincing conversation with the wrong person to blow what could have been your inheritance/ retirement/ vacation... money.
And, since "setting the price" is not really a science anyway, no single individual defines the market. Also, "One mans trash is another mans treasure" RULES when it comes to value.
Now, considering the fact that Im sure that you want to get the most (cash!) for your efforts, let's be honest, an antique dealers job is to make money from "antiques"; and whether those antiques belong to them or you makes little difference! Therefore, its wise, (as well as necessary), to get as many opinions from as many dealers/ collectors/ professionals/ professors/ books/ websites/ others that have NO interest in future ownership of the items in question... as possible. And then try Ebay - (no kidding!) You could end up making more money from holding an on-line auction there than you ever thought possible - w/out having to share the profit, and, in less time.

Answer 3

You will have to go item by item.

Answer 4

really old web pages