When most of one’s inventory is unsalable, profits plummet and customers begin to shop elsewhere. Unless a quick remedy is found, such shops face inevitable bankruptcy. Read More +
Behind the Gavel: Why dead inventory can kill your antiques business
Author Archives: Wayne Jordan
Antiques shop surveillance tools should be on everyone’s radar
The National Association for Shoplifting Prevention reports that more than 10 million people have been caught shoplifting in the last five years. Inventory shrinkage becomes a very big expense for antiques dealers. Here’s what dealers can do to protect themselves from becoming a theft victim. Read More +
Why are estate sales booming when antiques shops struggle to pay rent?
In almost every market, the number of traditional antiques stores continues to dwindle while other marketing channels — estate sale companies, auction companies, consignment stores and online venues — continue to grow. Read More +
Antiques inheritances affected by 2013 gift tax changes
With the lifetime gift tax exemption scheduled to drop from $5 million to $1 million on Jan. 1, 2013, collectors are scuffling to pass on as much tax-free wealth as possible to their children and heirs. But be careful. When it comes to gifting collections, both collectors and appraisers need to move cautiously. Read More +
Top antiques apps for your iPad or Android tablet
There are many mobile applications available for antique dealers and collectors. Before you search for apps that will serve you well in your hobby or business, Wayne Jordan says there are a few things you need to know. Although many exist, he lists two apps that have proven themselves useful in the antiques marketplace for price research, locating products and marketing. Read More +
Clinging to outdated descriptions may be hurting your antiques business
In our information-heavy, digitally-driven world of antiques, dealers have learned to choose their words wisely. But you may not know as much as you think you do; clinging to outdated words and definitions may be hurting your business. Read More +
How managing your antiques inventory can cut your taxes
Wayne Jordan says to avoid overpaying or underpaying your taxes, you need to control and track your antiques shop inventory. Since the IRS doesn’t accept Victorian rockers or Depression glass as payment for tax bills, here’s a look at how inventory and taxes are related. Read More +
Tap the probate system to win the competition for great antiques
Antiques dealers want to find the best merchandise and negotiate a good price before their competitors show up. Browsing probate records could help a family in need and help you score some valuable inventory. Read More +
Antique shop rents should be based on location, traffic
Why do shows and shops tell dealers they are selling space when they are really selling traffic? Antique malls (and antique shows) that rent space based solely on booth size are cheating themselves and their dealers. Read More +
Three ways Google Insights for Search will improve your antiques business
Sure you can read what’s hot and what’s not, but what if you could learn exactly what the collectors who live near your store search for online? Indeed you can with Google Insights for Search, a powerful new tool you can use to create your own “hot list.” Read More +