(image: https://live.staticflickr.com/3546/3334503893_c4544f26c6.jpg)Antique furniture can be an investment of a lifetime, and a difficult thing to get to your home. Take a look at these suggestions before spending your money and time on furniture that is antique. Enjoy the excitement of finding something special!

First, you must conduct research

There is so much to discover about antique furniture. Before you start browsing and making purchases, make sure you Read From The Link all you can about antique furniture particularly if it is of some particular period or style that you really love. It will be easier to spot reproductions as well as expensive things if you're knowledgeable about antique furniture.

It is important to look for the maker's name

Most antique furniture has some kind of mark from the person or the place who was responsible for the creation of it, often in areas which people would not see such as the inside of a dresser drawer or the backside of the piece.

Be aware of signs of age

The trend is to make furniture appear old-fashioned, you may come across a piece that has been altered by someone to look older than it is. But, there are some indicators to be aware of - firstly check for any imperfections. If the item was made by hand, there could be some variations in the woodwork. However, If everything appears to be identical, there's a reason to be concerned.

It is also possible to look for obvious signs that indicate that the item is being used. For instance, are the seat and arms of a chair worn out than the other pieces? Wood shrinks as time passes, and so cracking and warping is common with older furniture.

You must ensure that you are able to move it

If you're going far or going to a flea market, make sure that your search for antique furniture is accompanied by a vehicle that will allow you to bring it home. The store you visit will probably simply put it in storage until you come back, but fairs and markets will often require you to take the furniture right then and there.

You'll require a vehicle that can carry furniture, plenty of blankets or furniture pads to protect it; enough people to transport the item; packaging tape; and bubble wrap.

Keep your style and budget in mind when shopping

This is a great guideline to follow when purchasing antiques. Have a budget in mind particularly since furniture could be more costly than you imagine. A great rule of thumb to keep in mind when purchasing antiques is to never buy it because you like it. Most likely, it's furniture. If so you'll want to display it in the house. Are you still undecided? Don't settle because you're tired of hunting or you feel pressured to buy. You can wait for something that you like.

Antique furniture is typically high-end furniture, and these handcrafted pieces are unlike much of what you'd find in stores today. There is a lot of success with antique furniture when you take care to ensure that the furniture you're looking at is in great condition.