Posted on May 9, 2020 by Behnam Rugs

How to Sell Persian and Oriental Rugs

Perhaps it is time to get rid of your rug. There are three main routes you can go about when it comes to selling your Persian or Oriental rug. We hope after reading this blog you are able to choose the right option for you and get the best offer possible for your fine rug.

Selling to a Rug Dealer
There are many rug dealers in Dallas that may be interested in purchasing your rug, however, Behnam Rugs cautions you when going about this route. Know your appraisal like the back of your hand. We recommend you get a verbal or written appraisal to be certain of your rug’s worth. You can share this with potential buyers. Many dealers may low-ball you and offer to buy your rug for a fraction of what it is actually worth. If you simply want to get rid of your rug, this might be the option for you.

Some rug dealers may be willing to work out a consignment deal with you, too. You may be able to put your old rug toward the purchase of a new rug if the dealer is interested in buying the rug you want to get rid of.

DIY
If you’d like to go the old “do it yourself” route, Craigslist is one option. You can handle the entire transaction yourself and pick the price you believe is fair. To get the best value for your rug, consider photographing the rug in a setting that includes furniture. Many buyers would not purchase a rug if was photographed only on its own, but a furniture setting might help them to envision the rug in their own home. Remember, people will very likely low-ball you on Craigslist as well. Be prepared for this. In addition, be careful meeting with strangers to sell your rug. Don’t be surprised if the buyer shows up with less money than you agreed to and tries to get the rug from you for even cheaper.

You can look up rugs similar to yours on eBay to see what people are selling for. Behnam Rugs advises against listing on eBay for a couple of reasons, though. Shipping a rug is no easy task. Physically, it can be exhausting. You will also have to make sure your rug is safe from rain and other water damage, not so careful mailmen, and you will need to make sure the package is insured, too. Read our blog to learn more about how to prepare a rug for shipping. You might end up with so many extra fees that it simply wouldn’t be worth the hassle.

Rug Auction
Dallas is a large city and there are many auction options available here. Depending on the value of your rug, one option might be the Dallas Auction Gallery, which specializes in fine art and luxury items. While you might have to pay a percentage of the sale to these services, you would likely still be making more than if you were to handle the sale yourself.

Before putting your rug up for sale, Behnam Rugs strongly suggests having your rug cleaned. Your rug will not have a second chance to make a first impression. It will be more appealing and more valuable if it has been recently cleaned. If it’s been some time since your last cleaning or if your rug has seen a lot of use lately, consider having it cleaned at Behnam Rugs. We clean and sanitize rugs using our 10 Step Persian Hand Washing Process.

Other Options

You don’t have to sell your rug! If you think that might be more hassle than it’s worth, donation is always an option. You can read more about donating your rug in our post, New Possibilities for Old and Unwanted Persian and Oriental Rugs.

If you have a rug you are looking to sell, call 972-733-0400.