Buying a new suit, replacing your old car, finding the right person to paint your house, or buying antiques and collectibles--the products are different, but the thinking process should be the same. If you follow a few simple rules, you will find you are as happy a week after the purchase as the day of the event itself.

Whether you are a novice or an advanced collector, to protect yourself from the “Oh, why in the world did I ever buy that” after-shock, here are 10 easy tips to consider prior to buying an antique.

1. Attend museum exhibitions, gallery and antiques shows, flea markets, tag sales and auctions. Visit every dealer and collector involved in your area so that you will learn as much as you can both prior to and during your collecting days.

2. Read every possible publication in the antiques and art trade and especially those in the areas in which you are interested. Studying antiques and collectibles is a never-ending process.

3. It is important to investigate the marketplace to see what is available and at what price. Don’t be afraid to visit the top dealers to learn about the best items.

4. Make your first priority to buy what you really love and can live with rather than what will rise in value.

5. Try to buy what you can afford while making sure that the item is best of its kind in whatever area you are collecting.

6. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is a good idea to find a dealer you can trust who will advise and answer your questions.

7. Determine if what you are buying is as old as it is purported to be.

8. Remember the condition on a piece is important. Has the piece been repaired or restored? If so, how much? Pieces in original condition usually retain value and continue to rise in worth more readily.

9. If relevant, is the piece sterling or silverplate, gold or gold filled, newly painted, painted over or original?

10. When you buy, make sure the seller is willing to give you a receipt which includes the following information: the age and country of origin of the piece, a complete description, condition, date of purchase, the name and address of the dealer and the price.

Hopefully, the end result will be that you are as happy a day or week after the purchase as the day of the event itself. Happy hunting!