Antique & Vintage Store

Antique and vintage stores sell older items valued for age, quality, nostalgia, or collectibility - furniture, décor, jewelry, clothing, records, books, art, and specialized collectibles.

You lease retail space (or outdoor antique mall booth to start), source inventory from estate sales, auctions, pickers, and individuals, price based on knowledge and market, and serve collectors and decorators.

Success requires expertise in specific categories, authentication skills, pricing knowledge, and sourcing abilities.

Business models include general antiques, specialization (mid-century modern, vintage clothing, architectural salvage, specific collectibles), or antique mall vendor booth.

Margins vary enormously - some items double or triple purchase price while rare finds might 10x.

Inventory investment is ongoing as items sell.

Costs include rent, inventory acquisition, restoration (for some items), and time spent sourcing.

Successful dealers develop expertise in specific areas, build reputations for fair dealing and authenticity, and create appealing displays.

Marketing involves social media showcasing new acquisitions, Instagram-worthy shop aesthetic, participating in antique shows, and building email list of collectors.

The business appeals to treasure hunters and history lovers, combining shopping with education.

Challenges include sourcing quality inventory, authentication risks, and fluctuating market values.