How do you determine what a map is worth?
[ Placeholder — describe your valuation process: factors you consider (mapmaker, date, rarity, condition, subject matter, current market), and how you arrive at a fair price. Reassure sellers you're not trying to lowball them. ]
What kinds of maps are you interested in buying?
[ Placeholder — describe the types you most actively collect: regions (Americas, Europe, Asia, etc.), periods (16th–19th century, early 20th century?), formats (wall maps, atlas sheets, sea charts, town plans, decorative maps). Note that you'll still look at things outside those categories. ]
What if my map isn't particularly valuable?
[ Placeholder — be honest and warm here. Not every map is worth a lot, and sellers deserve to know. Explain how you'll communicate that respectfully, and perhaps mention resources (appraisers, auction houses for lower-value items) so they have options. ]
How and when will I be paid?
[ Placeholder — payment method (bank transfer, check, PayPal?), timing (payment sent once map arrives and is verified? Before shipping?), and any escrow or protection arrangements for high-value transactions. ]
Who pays for shipping?
[ Placeholder — who pays, how maps should be packed, whether you provide shipping labels, and what insurance coverage applies. ]
Do I need to get my map professionally appraised first?
[ Placeholder — reassure that an appraisal is not necessary to submit. Explain your process makes that easy. ]
What if I have a collection of maps, not just one?
[ Placeholder — explain how you handle lots and collections. Do you take the whole collection? Price per item or as a lot? ]
How do I know my map will be safe during evaluation?
[ Placeholder — explain that evaluation is based on photos, so the map never leaves your hands until an offer is accepted. Describe how you handle shipping insurance once a deal is made. ]
I found a map at an estate sale — how do I know if it's genuinely old?
[ Placeholder — brief guidance on signs of age (paper, printing technique, typography, watermarks). Invite them to submit photos and let you assess it. ]
Are you interested in maps outside the United States?
[ Placeholder — confirm you buy worldwide, or describe any geographic limits you have. ]