0 recommendations
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Best Quality Rugs in Towson
Provided by Judy's Book
I stopped in to buy a used rug although I ended up with two new Nourison rugs and a runner. I was surprised they also sold new oriental rugs. The people were very knowledgeable and the gentleman that helped me (Larry) took the time to show me a lot of inventory and help me pick the right pads. Thanks!
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Go in with your eyes wide open
Provided by Judy's Book
Alex Cooper sells very fine estates and their auctions are well attended by high end dealers and collectors. I have been to their sales and have also been to many hundreds of other auctions. Shady practices are fairly common among auctioneers and you really need to look out for your own interests and be aware of what the auctioneer is doing. This is one house where you need to be especially aware.Their sales also tend to run slow. The auctioneers do not for the most part have a fast-paced banter, which makes it easier for newbies to understand them but it also drags the sale out. They are also generally not too interested in being helpful if you have questions or want to examine a piece after the official preview period is over. They don't usually mention damage when selling and pieces in the cases are turned so that damage isn't visible. You really have to be very careful and aware that things may not be as they seem.
Business Response from Paul R
Although I appreciate Paul H's warnings about "buyer beware", I really do not appreciate his insinuations about hiding damaged goods. We place very detailed pictures of each item on our web site and have 3 full DAYS for exhibition. EVERY item is available to be handled and examined prior to the sale. NO ONE places items to hide defects. We also provide detailed "condition reports" to anyone making email inquiries. In order to maintain a sales pace of 100 lots per hour, we are not afforded the time to describe in detail the pros and cons of each item as it is sold. We simply announce the item and call the bids. Since we provide 3 days for exhibition, it is really difficult to allow customers to go through the locked display cases in the middle of the sale. The remaining 80% of the items not in display cases can still be viewed during the sale. The important advice for any auction buyer is to take advantage of the exhibition or communicate by email.
