Buying Vintage & Antique at Auctions, Fairs, and Markets

If you’ve ever felt drawn to an old chair or a piece of porcelain walking past a dusty stall, welcome to my world—you’re already halfway to being a vintage hunter! Buying antiques for your home isn’t about filling space; it’s about layering personality, craftsmanship, and history into your rooms. Layered with a few newer pieces, period homes thrive on antique and vintage furniture and accessories. Few experiences rival the excitement of uncovering pieces with real history behind them, and auctions, antique markets, and fairs are some of the richest hunting grounds for lovers of period homes.

Over the years, walking hundreds of fairs and bidding at more auctions than I’d like to admit, I’ve learned a few strategies that make the hunt both more effective and more enjoyable. Here’s how you can source beautiful, enduring pieces - without the overwhelm or the costly mistakes.

Start With a Vision—But Stay Open to other Possibilities

The most common mistake new buyers make is showing up without a vision or becoming so rigid they miss out on interesting finds.

Before you go:

• Spend ten minutes scrolling saved images on Pinterest, Instagram, and your favourite design books. Identify recurring shapes, finishes, and eras you’re drawn to.

• Note the scale of your spaces: measure that alcove, the wall behind the sofa, the hallway landing and make sure you carry the measurements with you. You won’t have these numbers in your head during the excitement of a market frenzy.

• But you absolutely must leave room for surprise. The best antiques often aren’t things you knew to look for.

  
  

Understand the Difference Between Auctions, Fairs & Markets

Antique fairs, auctions, and antique markets may all promise history and character, but each offers a distinct experience. Fairs tend to gather trusted dealers under one roof for a curated, often higher-quality selection. Auctions bring drama and unpredictability, where prices can soar - or surprise you - with the fall of a hammer. Markets, meanwhile, are the most relaxed and they're really rummage-friendly, ideal for digging through eclectic stalls in search of that unexpected gem. Understanding how these venues differ will help you shop smarter and enjoy the search for that special piece.

Auctions

Auctions are great for higher-value pieces, fine furniture, art and architectural salvage.

Pros: transparent pricing (eventually), vetted catalogues, provenance, the thrill.

Cons: buyer’s premiums, zero returns, can be intimidating.

Tips:

• Always read the catalogue carefully. Condition reports matter.

• Always visit the preview day if possible; photographs can lie.

• Set a maximum price before bidding begins, including buyer’s premium and transport.

• Register early so you’re not flustered when your lot comes up.

  
  

Antique Fairs

Antique fairs are perfect for mid-range pieces, decorative objects, mirrors, lighting, textiles.

Pros: curated dealers, better quality control, the possibility of negotiation.

Cons: can be pricier than markets, competitive for the “good stuff.”

Tips:

• Arrive early for the best finds, or late for the best deals.

• Build relationships with dealers—tell them what you’re looking for. Many will source for you.

• Bring cash; it still talks.

  
  

Antique Markets & Car Boot–Style Sales

These are perfect if you' re looking for bargains, quirky finds, rustic furniture, unexpected treasures.

Pros: lowest prices, widest variety, fun atmosphere.

Cons: lots of sifting, mixed quality, occasional heartbreak when that perfect piece is snatched from under your nose.

Tips:

• Take a slow, scanning walk first, then circle back.

• Check for structural integrity: wobble the legs, inspect joints, check for woodworm.

• If the price seems high, politely counter with your best offer and be willing to walk away.

Learn to Recognise Quality—Quickly

A few seconds should tell you whether a piece is worth inspecting further.

Look for:

• Joinery - dovetails, mortise-and-tenon joints, hand-carved details.

• Patina - age should present as warmth and depth, never uniformity.

• Proportion - older furniture often has elegant, human-scaled proportions that feel timeless.

• Weight - craftsmanship feels solid. Overly lightweight pieces are usually newer or cheaply made.

• Hardware - original brass, bone, or iron is a good sign; Philips screws suggest a later addition.

Don’t Fear Imperfections - But Know When They Matter

Remember that some flaws add character and others are liabilities.

Charmingly acceptable:

• Small dents

• Scratches

• Sun fading

• Uneven colouration

• Old repairs

Proceed with caution:

• Active woodworm (fresh holes and powder)

• Structural damage requiring a restorer

• Severe water damage or mould

• Reworked or mismatched elements (unless you love the quirk)

Always remember that buying vintage means buying something with history. It doesn't have to be perfect.

Negotiate With Grace

Haggling is part of the culture, but it’s not a battle.

How to negotiate well:

• Always be polite. Dealers know their stock intimately.

• It's fine to ask a dealer whether he would accept less.

• If you’re buying more than one piece, ask for a combined discount.

• Carry cash or be prepared to show proof of bank transfer.

• If a dealer won’t budge, respect it. Quality often commands its price.

  
  

Think Logistically - Transport, Restoration, Placement

It’s easy to fall in love with a Welsh dresser, only to realise it doesn’t fit in a hatchback.

Before buying:

• Confirm dimensions (and don't forget to measure your doorways!)

• Ask whether the dealer offers delivery.

• Assess costs for minor restoration or reupholstery.

• Visualise exactly where the piece will live in your home.

A gorgeous find without a plan becomes gorgeous clutter.

Build Dealer Relationships

This is the hidden superpower of vintage sourcing.

Once dealers know your taste, budget, and wish list, they’ll text you photos of new arrivals before they hit the market. This is how most designers source their best pieces.

Always be friendly and loyal. It's worth following them on Instagram - many dealers now post their finds in real time.

Always Trust Your Instinct

Vintage buying is part skill, part heart. If you feel drawn to something, pause and listen. Can you see it in your home? Does it add character, balance, or depth? Does it make you smile?

If yes, that’s the piece.

And finally...

Homes filled with antiques feel layered, warm, and genuinely personal. They carry the weight of stories - some you know, some you’ll never uncover - and they age gracefully alongside you. Whether you find your next treasure in a marquee on a muddy field, in a gallery-like fair, or under the hum of an auctioneer’s chant, the key is simple: approach the hunt with curiosity, confidence, and a little patience.

Your home will thank you. And you’ll have a far better story to tell than “I ordered it online.”

Vintage & Antique Buying Checklist

Before You Go

• ☐ Measure key spaces in your home (alcoves, wall widths, ceiling height)

• ☐ Note door and stairwell dimensions for large furniture

• ☐ Review inspiration images (Pinterest, Instagram, saved rooms)

• ☐ Make a loose wish list (categories, not rigid items)

• ☐ Set a budget—and a buffer for restoration or delivery

• ☐ Pack essentials: tape measure, notepad, phone charger, tote bags, cash

  
  

At Auctions

• ☐ Read the full catalogue and condition reports

• ☐ Visit the preview day and inspect pieces in person

• ☐ Identify lots you're genuinely interested in (mark them)

• ☐ Decide your maximum bid including buyer’s premium

• ☐ Register to bid early

• ☐ Note collection deadlines and transport options

  
  

At Antique Fairs

• ☐ Do an initial loop to see what’s on offer

• ☐ Prioritise stalls with pieces that match your aesthetic

• ☐ Inspect joinery, wear, repairs, and hardware

• ☐ Ask dealers for background or provenance when relevant

• ☐ Confirm delivery options for larger items

• ☐ Politely ask: “Is there any flexibility on the price?”

  
  

At Markets & Car Boot–Style Sales

• ☐ Scan the entire area before committing

• ☐ Check for structural integrity (wobble test)

• ☐ Look for signs of active woodworm (fresh powder)

• ☐ Lift the piece—weight often indicates quality

• ☐ Expect mixed quality; sift slowly and patiently

• ☐ Bring cash for best negotiation power

  
  

Quality Checks

• ☐ Hand-cut dovetail joints or traditional joinery

• ☐ Original hardware (brass, iron, bone)

• ☐ Authentic patina (not uniform staining)

• ☐ Minimal structural issues

• ☐ No active pests or severe water damage

• ☐ Proportions suited to your home’s scale

  
  

Negotiation Etiquette

• ☐ Be polite and respectful—dealers know their pieces

• ☐ Bundle items for better discounts

• ☐ Know your walk-away point

• ☐ Be ready to pay immediately (cash or transfer)

  
  

Before You Buy

• ☐ Re-check measurements (twice!)

• ☐ Visualise the piece in your space

• ☐ Factor in any repairs, upholstery, or cleaning

• ☐ Confirm return/guarantee policy (auctions often have none)

• ☐ Arrange or schedule transport

• ☐ Inspect one last time for missed damage

  
  

After You Buy

• ☐ Photograph any marks or existing condition before transport

• ☐ Clean or treat gently with appropriate products

• ☐ Keep receipts, provenance notes, or dealer contact info

• ☐ Find the perfect spot for it at home

• ☐ Enjoy the bit of history you’ve added to your space