Naturally, when you buy a book or annual it is always better to have it in your hands so that it can be examined easily. But of course it is not possible when you buy books online. This guide is for people who are buying 'used' books online whether as investments or just collecting for fun - and is based on years of experience collecting annuals.
- Decide what sort of collection you want. Do you want an investment or just the books no matter what the condition ?
- Do some research to see what the selling prices of the various books and annuals are so you have an idea of how much you need in terms of cash.
- The condition of the book or annual is extremely important if you are buying them for an investment. You need books in very good or better conditon if you want them to appreciate in value ( unless the book is extremely rare ).
- Be wary of an advertisement that describes a book as in very good condition 'except for a ripped spine' or ' it has only one defaced page'. A book is not in good condition let alone very good condition if it has a damaged spine, tears in pages or is defaced in any way.
- Price clipping and inscriptions - there are two schools of thought about price clipping and inscriptions ( when the price has been cut out or a written message is made on the inside ). Some say that clipping does not devalue a book. I disagree. In my view anything that is done to a book that alters its original state detracts from its value. Apart from being signed by the author of course.
- It is worth bearing in mind that if a book is price clipped it could indicate that it was given as a present and therefore subjected to all sorts of things which caused the book further damage inside which you cannot see online.
- Be careful when you are looking at a picture of a book which you are thinking of buying. The picture could be a 'stock' photo and not of the actual book being sold. If in doubt try and ask the seller and if you can't, think twice before you buy it.
- When considering a purchase make sure you check what the postage and packing costs are. A book at a good price may not be so much of a bargain if the post and packing costs are far too high.
- Once you have received your book be careful with it. It is only natural that you want to read it but use commonsense. Especially if you just leave it lying around where other people might get curious. Remember these books can be good investments !
Please let me know if you can think of any other tips or advice for people who want to buy or collect 'used' books and annuals from online sources. I would be glad to include the advice here.
