Crucial Tips For Buying Quality Wood Furniture At An Estate Sale

Whether you are a pro at estate sales or attending your first one, there are a few things to keep in mind before opening up your wallet. Estate sales can be a great place to scope out some really high-quality items for your home, from simple wall decor to mid-century furniture finds. The most valuable pieces at an estate sale are usually artwork, glassware, and rugs. You can also find some great quality wooden pieces. If wood furniture is something you are seeking, there is a bit more to consider.

Wood can be fickle, so don't jump at the first piece of furniture you find. You'll want to inspect the piece for any signs of wear and tear or damage. Solid wood and wood veneer are both great options that will last a long time. If you find veneer, though, make sure you check the edges and see that none of the layers are chipping off. In addition to damage, you'll want to consider any work that has to be done and look for signs of craftsmanship.

While there is something magical about going into an estate sale blind, if you truly want to leave with some great wooden items, you'll want to do your research. Before you walk in the door, identify exactly what you are looking for. Do you want an antique? Do you want something you can paint and reinvent? Do you want a sturdy, pivotal furniture item that will last for years to come?

If you want something that will last, look for the level of quality in the details. Something as small as the way the nails are put in can tell you a lot about how much work was put into the piece. If the nail beds are open and not covered by a wood dowel, it's likely the creator didn't put much effort into the piece as a whole. Similarly, you'll want to open all the drawers and doors, making sure the hinges are smooth and the frame is well-built. On the other hand, if you are hoping to find an antique wood, wear and tear is actually something you'll want to look for. Different sizes and shapes of nail holes are a good sign that it was built by hand and things like rust stains, which can only be made naturally, prove that a piece is actually an antique and not manufactured to look that way. 

One of the best ways to determine if a piece is not only antique and handmade but also unique is to look at the variety in the piece. Antique wood won't look the same as any other piece, so compare it to other options at the estate sale. If you want something sturdy, put some weight on the piece, whether that means sitting on a bench or leaning against a dresser. Don't just look at the main part, either. Inspect the drawers for bubbles and the underneath for signs of damage. 

Beyond looking at the details and mechanics, you also need to pay attention to price. Determining a fair price can be difficult, especially when you don't know for sure where the piece came from or when it was built. Don't be afraid to ask questions. If you are dealing with a professional estate salesperson, they likely have the answers to a lot of things you are wondering about, including the year it was made, the materials used, and even any damage it has sustained. At the end of the day, though, the price you are willing to pay for quality wood furniture is, ultimately, up to you. Before entering the estate sale, have an idea of your budget, and don't let the price tag be the end-all amount. You can always work with the seller on price if they are willing to negotiate.