Antiques Offer Shelter from Economic Storm

Washington, DC, (PRWEB) October 6, 2008 -- Antiques might just be the thing to help you weather the economic storm.

"The bargain prices of fine antiques right now makes investing in them a smart move for the well-informed buyer," says Bob James, president, Armacost Antiques Shows. "As more and more Americans seek safe harbors for their money, the moment's here for giving antiques and fine art a careful look."

But investing in antiques demands the same savvy required for success in other forms of investing. Washington, DC-based Armacost Antiques Shows, a producer of fine antiques shows, recommends shoppers keep these four fundamentals in mind:

- Buy to hold. Antiques aren't for flippers and short-term speculators. The market cycles are long and antiques illiquid compared to stocks, bonds and currencies. It is common for a fine antique to wait several years for the right buyer to appear, once it's offered for sale.

- Buy what you like. You need knowledge to buy antiques wisely, but learning about them will feel less like work if you focus your study on areas of personal interest. You'll also have to live with your purchases for years to profit, so you should enjoy looking at them.

- Track the trends. Like most markets, antiques are subject to fads. For a while, Shaker is hot, then it's not; Arts & Crafts is in, then it's out. When choosing antiques, balance your personal interests with the potential for future sales.

- Beware of fakes. Because there's money to be made, the antiques market attracts unscrupulous people. And some fakes are so convincing, they fool even reputable dealers on occasion. Spend time learning which dealers are both honest and knowledgeable.

About Armacost Antiques Shows

For nearly 40 years, Armacost Antiques Shows has provided distinctive opportunities for antiques lovers to buy with an assurance of quality and authenticity. All shows benefit nonprofits, including museums, churches, social service agencies and preservation groups. The nonprofit sponsors help generate enthusiasm for antiques while delivering much-needed financial support for their institutions and communities. More information is available at www.armacostantiquesshows.com.

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