Check out yard sales, flea markets, classifieds, and estate sales. Many times a seller will not realize that what they are selling is indeed an antique. He/she just may be mistaken in believing that the object is just something that is old, dusty, in need of repair or in need of refinishing. If this is the case, you may get the object at an inexpensive price. There will be times that you will be able to purchase great deals because some else is selling or liquidating pieces on behalf of another person and not know the true value of the products.

Don't be intimated by real antique dealers and traders. Just know that at places where you are working with traders and dealers, you won't find killer deals, but you will find great pieces. Know upfront the values of what you are looking for so you aren't taken advantage of by the dealer. Not all dealers are scammers. This can be a great place to meet and find some great honest people that can help you get great product.

Look to the internet for antique deals. If you can find something and buy it in person, you can also find it on the web. You can find websites for local, state or even antique dealers located out of the country. These websites can offer you advice on finding certain antiques, offer you advice on how to pick the perfect antique purchase and will even show you want antiques they have to sell. If you are starting out, you may want to keep local until you get a good feel for values and pricing.

Know what to look for. There are a few key indicators that will help you determine if something is an antique or not. Some of those items are square nails, hand stitching, other hand work, slight imperfections that imply non mass produced items. Tags, labels, and serial numbers. Also, take the time to start to understand the key terms and styles that go with the particular areas that you are interested in. Lastly, look for better craftsmanship than you find in currently made mass produced items.

Start out buying things that actually give you satisfaction. If you buy for satisfaction as well as value, you can start off by doing something that gives you pleasure, and you are more likely to continue with the hobby of collection.

Start small. Start with one piece. Move on to a couple of pieces. Don't rush the buying process. Keep learning and studying as you slowly grow your collection.

When shopping for antiques, dress the part. Don't look too successful or look like you have tons of money. Downplay your presence. If you look like you have lots of money to spend, then people will try to get you to depart with it. Look casual, and unassuming.

Go early. If you are heading to an antique market, remember the early bird catches the worm. Try to show up on the first day and try to be there as close to opening as possible. If you aren't, you may lose the best pieces. Another strategy that works well in reverse with flea markets and garage sales is to go late. Many times, you can find great deals at the end of the day because a seller just wants to get rid of product so they don't have to take it back.

Lastly, know your limitations. If you don't know something, or are unsure, don't be afraid to get a trusted expert opinion. Pay a few hundred to save a thousand dollar mistake.

Antiques are fun, and can be great investments. Just remember to start small, and build up. Learn as you go, and gain information from people who are knowledgeable.