Selling Mid Century Furniture

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Post on Jan 27, 2025

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Selling Mid-Century Modern Furniture: A Guide to Maximizing Your Profits

Mid-century modern furniture is experiencing a massive resurgence in popularity. Its clean lines, functional design, and timeless appeal make it a highly sought-after commodity. If you're looking to sell your mid-century pieces, whether a single chair or an entire collection, this guide will help you maximize your profits and reach the right buyers.

Identifying Your Mid-Century Modern Pieces

Before you start selling, it's crucial to accurately identify your furniture. Knowing the manufacturer, designer, and year of production significantly impacts its value. Look for maker's marks, labels, or stamps. Research online resources like:

• 1stDibs: A high-end online marketplace specializing in antique and vintage furniture.
• Chairish: Another excellent online platform for selling vintage and contemporary furniture.
• LiveAuctioneers: A website where you can find auction results and information on past sales.

Use these sites not only to identify your pieces but also to research comparable sales and get a sense of current market prices. Pay close attention to the materials used (e.g., teak, walnut, rosewood) and the condition of the furniture. Any original upholstery or hardware adds considerable value.

Authenticating Your Pieces

If you're unsure about the authenticity of a piece, consider consulting with an appraiser specializing in mid-century modern furniture. While this adds a cost upfront, it could prevent you from underselling a valuable item. Photographs with clear details, including maker's marks, are crucial for expert authentication.

Preparing Your Furniture for Sale

Presentation is key. A well-prepared piece will fetch a higher price. This includes:

• Cleaning: Thoroughly clean your furniture, paying special attention to removing any dirt, dust, or grime. Use appropriate cleaning solutions for the specific material.
• Repairing: Address any minor damage, such as scratches or loose joints. Major repairs should be undertaken by a professional.
• Polishing: Polish wood furniture to bring out its natural beauty and luster.
• Photography: High-quality photographs are essential. Use natural light and showcase the furniture from multiple angles, highlighting its unique features. Close-up shots of details and maker's marks are also beneficial.

Choosing Your Sales Platform

You have several options for selling your mid-century modern furniture:

Online Marketplaces

• eBay: A vast marketplace with a large audience, but be prepared for competition.
• Etsy: A great option for unique and handcrafted items, particularly if your furniture has a strong design element.
• Facebook Marketplace: A convenient local option, ideal for selling larger items that are difficult to ship.
• Chairish & 1stDibs: (Reiterating from above) These platforms cater specifically to higher-end vintage furniture and attract discerning buyers willing to pay premium prices.

Auction Houses

Auction houses can be a good option for valuable pieces, but they typically charge a commission. Research local auction houses specializing in antiques and vintage furniture.

Consignment Shops

Consignment shops specializing in vintage furniture offer convenience, but they take a percentage of the sale price.

Pricing Your Furniture Strategically

Research comparable sales on the platforms you've chosen. Consider the condition, rarity, designer, and materials when setting your price. It’s better to start with a slightly higher price and negotiate down than to undervalue your furniture from the outset.

Marketing Your Furniture Effectively

• High-Quality Photos: As mentioned previously, excellent photos are crucial.
• Detailed Descriptions: Provide accurate and detailed descriptions of your furniture, including dimensions, materials, condition, and any known history.
• Targeted Keywords: Use relevant keywords in your listings (e.g., "mid-century modern teak credenza," "Eames chair," "Danish modern dining table").
• Social Media: Share your listings on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, using relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.

Negotiating with Buyers

Be prepared to negotiate, but don't undervalue your furniture. Know your bottom line and stick to it. Consider offering a slight discount for cash payments or quick sales.

By following these steps, you can successfully sell your mid-century modern furniture and receive a fair price for your valuable pieces. Remember that patience and persistence are key to a successful sale. Good luck!