How I Review Antique Shops & Centers

This article explains how I evaluate antique shops and centers using a clear, structured scoring system.

Learn why I use a scoring system, what categories I evaluate, how each score is defined, and how the final rating is calculated.

A scoring card titled reviewing antique shops and centers

Table of Contents

My Scoring Criteria Explained Why I Use a Scoring System Scoring Categories & What They Mean How the Final Score Is Calculated A Note to Shop Owners

My Scoring Criteria Explained

Antique shops and centers vary wildly—from tiny treasure dens to sprawling emporiums. To fairly and consistently evaluate them, I use a structured scoring system designed from the perspective of a serious antique buyer, collector, and reseller.

This page explains exactly how I score each shop and what the final rating means, so both readers and shop owners can understand the process behind each review.

Why I Use a Scoring System

To offer clear, decision-making value to different types of visitors
To maintain transparency and consistency across all reviews
To highlight both strengths and weaknesses based on real, first-hand visits
To show respect to the places I review—whether praised or constructively critiqued

I evaluate each location across six categories. Each one is rated from 1 to 5 and weighted based on its importance to the overall visitor experience.

Scoring Categories & What They Mean

Below are the six categories I score, their descriptions, and the full 1–5 scale I use.

Item Variety (Weight: 20%)

How broad and diverse the shop’s inventory is in terms of eras, categories, object types, and collecting niches.

Meaning

Extremely limited range; only one type of item or category; very repetitive stock.

Some variation, but mostly focused on a narrow niche; limited appeal for general buyers.

Moderate variety; several categories, but unevenly represented.

Wide and interesting mix; good balance across eras and item types.

Outstanding variety; from smalls to furniture, with multiple styles and time periods well represented.

Item Quality & Authenticity (Weight: 20%)

Condition, originality, and degree of professional or sympathetic restoration.

Meaning

Poor condition items, heavily damaged or obvious reproductions.

Many restored or altered items; questionable authenticity.

Generally good condition; a few over-cleaned or repaired items.

High-quality, well-preserved stock with minimal restoration.

Museum-level quality; pristine or untouched items with clear provenance or rarity.

Pricing & Value (Weight: 20%)

Affordability for different buyers; potential for resale; value relative to quality.

Meaning

Extremely overpriced; very little value for collectors or trade.

Generally high prices; not competitive, limited room for resale.

Average pricing; some fair deals; hit-or-miss value.

Very fair pricing; consistent value for collectors and trade buyers.

Excellent value; frequent bargains or underpriced items, ideal for resellers.

Dealer Knowledge & Helpfulness (Weight: 15%)

Staff interaction, expertise, willingness to share item background or assist.

Meaning

No assistance or engagement; little to no knowledge shown.

Somewhat helpful, but unclear or vague when asked about items.

Friendly and moderately informed; can answer basic questions.

Informed staff or dealers; willingly shares knowledge and stories.

Expert-level assistance; insightful, passionate, and supportive with deep item knowledge.

Atmosphere & Layout (Weight: 15%)

Visual appeal, organization, lighting, and general vibe of the space.

Meaning

Cluttered or dirty; unpleasant or stressful to browse.

Messy or poorly lit; limited signage or direction.

Neutral; functional but lacks charm or clarity.

Well-arranged and visually engaging; comfortable flow.

Beautifully curated and immersive; a joy to browse and photograph.

Accessibility & Practical Info (Weight: 10%)

Practical usability of the shop for various visitors (especially casual browsers and older shoppers).

Meaning

Very difficult to access; poor signage, no parking, stairs only.

Several issues (limited hours, no toilets, card not accepted).

Acceptable access; a few minor inconveniences.

Well-signed, accessible, and visitor-friendly; most needs met.

Excellent access, with parking, café, seating, toilets, card payments, etc. all available.

How the Final Score Is Calculated

Each category score is multiplied by its weight, and the results are added together for a final rating out of 5. For example:

If a shop scores 4 in Item Variety, that contributes 0.8 to the final score (4 × 20%).

The final result reflects the overall experience based on this weighted breakdown, not just one strength or flaw.

A Note to Shop Owners

My reviews are written with care and fairness. I visit each place personally, document my experience thoroughly, and write from the honest perspective of an antique buyer and storyteller.

If your shop is featured and you have feedback, corrections, or just want to chat antiques - I welcome it.

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