What will I be doing?

There are more than 38,000 antique dealers in the U.S., with many of them operating from home. It's the perfect full-time business for those who love quality furniture. Antique dealers can be surrounded by the best of the past. And they can make a living doing what they enjoy. As a home-based antique dealer you will find, appraise, purchase and sell antiques in your home, in a warehouse or through a catalog.

What will I need to start?

If you've been an antique collector for very long you may already have some of the inventory you'll need to start your antique business. If not, you'll need to build some inventory to get started, and you can gather this by going to flea markets, estate sales and garage sales. Find the source that works best and at the lowest cost for you. Or your may decide to only sell antiques on consignment from others. This can be an expensive business to get into, so learn as much as you can and plan each purchase well. If you live in a location where people can easily find your home, find out whether local zoning laws will let you set up a retail store in your home. If not, consider showing your antiques by appointment only or renting a retail location.

Who will my customers be?

Customers for your antique dealership include collectors and individuals who simply want to decorate their homes with antiques. More specifically, your customers will be people who appreciate the value of the types of antiques you sell. One Iowan who found himself in San Francisco discovered lots of customers for farmhouse antiques, but few sources. He made a trip back to Iowa, rented a truck, bought pieces at auctions and estate sales, and took them to the City by the Bay for resale. He knew what antiques his customers wanted and, as important, where to find these antiques.