Editor’s Note: We asked antiques and collectibles expert Spalding Nix to offer up his “golden rules” for those looking to add fine art, antiques and collectibles to their home.

By Spalding Nix

Rule 1: Never ever buy art only for the sake of making an investment. Buy it because you like it.

Rule 2: Look, look, look! Develop your eye and have some fun. Go to gallery opening, visit artist studios, tour museum exhibitions, attend lectures, read Art For Dummies.

Rule 3: Trust your own taste. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake.

Rule 4: Look for value. Only stretch your budget for the right reasons.

Rule 5: Buy from reputable dealers. But how can you tell?

• Avoid any dealer with who sells Salvador Dali or Norman Rockwell.  Other artists to avoid are Tarkay, Erté, Earle, Jiang, Chagall (late), Max, Neiman and Agam. They are all overpriced!
• Avoid – like the plague –  the “Limited Edition Print” and any dealer who sells them. They are nothing but overpriced, signed posters.
• Avoid the dealer who talks investment and offers a Certificate of Authenticity. Certificates of Authenticity are usually phony. They lead you to believe that you have an original piece of work when in reality you may not.
• Avoid galleries located in shopping malls, tourist areas and airports.

For more, contact Spalding Nix Fine Art & Antiques at (404) 841-7777 to schedule an appointment or visit www.spaldingnixfineart.com.