Second hand furniture doesn’t necessarily have to mean used offerings from popular retailers: if you want to make a good impression, splashing out on some antique furniture can impress, as well as prove to be a good investment over time. But what do you look for in antique furniture for the office? This article explores some of the key elements of good antique furniture.

It is wise not to venture into antique furniture lightly, as typical prices can be four and even five figures. Before you even begin to consider investing, do your research to make sure you know what to expect when you are looking for. An unknowledgeable purchase made could be money wasted.

View your antique furniture not as a purchase, but as an investment for the future. Antique furniture from a good period will be likely to gain value over time, so it is important to purchase correctly. Doing your homework can get you a relatively low-priced item which would be likely to increase in value in the future.

For a more modernistic and spacious approach, glass desks may hold more of an appeal. Such desks can make your workplace look professional and corporate, with a large range of designs available on the market. Always bear in mind what the table would be used for, and whether or not the table you consider would meet your requirements.

It is important to be aware of fake antiques and reproductions, which can occur in auctions and shops. A comprehensive knowledge of antique furniture can prevent this. Compact handbooks and guides are common from bookstores for reference when browsing.

It is believed office chairs should be the focal point of any budget. Some experts recommend that two thirds of a budget for office furniture should be spent on them. It is always important to check the condition of an office chair, as faulty ones can act as health risks; causing neck and back problems.

Remember: you are not just looking for an eye-pleasing piece of furniture. As this furniture is for your office or study, you should be making sure that the item suits your needs and is practical. For instance, what use is an antique chair to your study if it is not a comfortable one?

When on the lookout for potential pieces of furniture, do not be deterred by items which have stains or blemishes. Typically, such issues are easy resolved by simple restoration procedures. Items like this can prove to be the most profitable if the problems are treated correctly.

Used office furniture does not necessarily have to mean newly manufactured and modern furniture, though. Antique furniture is popular if you plan to make an impression. Costs are high, so be prepared for a shock should you decide to browse in a proprietor’s shop.

The classified advertising concept works both ways, with both sellers and buyers having something to offer. If you are short for time but are still keen for results, consider making an advertisement outlining what you need and what you are willing to pay. You may be pleasantly surprised as offers to your specification come rushing in.

Ergonomic furniture is usually more expensive than normal furniture, so expect this feature to be integrated into the price. In desks, look for adjustable height features electrically or manually. In office chairs, look for products that improve posture in the back and neck.

Establishing a good foundation of knowledge can help you find your feet in the world of antique furniture. There are a host of websites and literature which can help you learn some of the key elements of this fun and interesting sector of furniture. The reward for your hard work are clear: beautiful pieces of valuable furniture for your office or study.