How do you tell the difference between an antique asset and a piece of old tat? One thing's for sure, get it right and your stylish home addition could also prove a safe and lucrative investment. And who better to advise on investing in the beguiling world of antiques than Paul Martin, presenter of Flog It! - one of the most popular daytime shows in BBC2's history. "I spend all my money on antiques, it's like a drug - I live and breathe them," says Martin. "They're a fantastic investment. Buy something for a few thousand and a few years later, it can be worth double that when you come to sell it. As long as you're trading up, you're on to a winner." A refreshing change to the staid antiques expert, Martin is genuinely passionate about the subject. "You need to find something you enjoy looking at, something that puts a smile on your face, not something that's going to make you and others go…what's that?! "I believe antiques should be seen and shown off," he adds. "I don't agree with buying a wonderful oil painting that's so expensive you have to hide it away under lock and key." Furniture Finds Having studied art and woodwork at Falmouth College in Cornwall, Martin has some solid advice when it comes to buying furniture. "Why spend a fortune on something from the reproduction line or £800 on having a carpenter recreate an antique look, when you can spend £1,200 on the real thing?" "Look for good, solid, English furniture made of oak from the 17th and 18th century; wood that you can see your face in. It should look warm and tactile, with a dark colour and lots of texture. The test is, when you walk past a piece, you should want to put your hand out and touch it." A Piece of History Part of the joy of buying antiques is to learn about the history of the piece, says Martin, as well as enjoying its architectural delight. "Research a piece of furniture; get a feel for how something was built, learn why you like one piece more than another. You'll see its virtues and appreciate it that bit more. And if it's a painting, go to an exhibition and learn why some pieces sell for more than others. "And later, should you get fed up with it, sell it back to the auction house you bought it from and make some money. That's the thing with antiques, you're not wasting money, it isn't going to depreciate. And it can be practical, functional and something you can enjoy. "There are no rules when it comes to choosing an antique that suits you and your home; it's all about good design. At the end of the day, you can't show off your bank statement or your ISA at a dinner party, but you can impress your peers with a striking Cromwellian piece of furniture. It's fun; it's theatre. Enjoy it and have a laugh." All sage advice from the Flog it! front man, and here's some more from Confused.com: if you're filling your home with pricey antiques, it's a good idea to make sure those perfect purchases are covered by your home insurance - so check your contents cover policy wording. Paul Martin's Tips * Look at The Antiques Trade Gazette, which has a list of auction houses and tips on what to look for. * Do your homework. Research the period and the pieces you're interested in. * Always buy something that's signed by an artist or has the maker's name and label, and never buy anything that's been restored. Prominence always adds to the value and helps with the resale. * Go a few days before the auction to view the object when it's quiet. Measure it up and talk to the auctioneer. * Look at the auction catalogue and have a maximum amount in mind you're willing to bid. * Book a phone line on auction day, so you can stay focused from the comfort of your own home and keep within the limits you've set. And Paul's Top Tip... "Buy something from the 20th century - something that's going to fit in a contemporary interior. Look for artists from the 1930s-1950s, like Terry Frost, famous for his abstract prints and Dame Laura Knight."
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