The One That Got Away: The Regret of Not Buying
Every collector, art enthusiast, and antique hunter has a story about the one that got away. A painting you hesitated on, a piece of furniture you wanted to “think about,” or an artifact you told yourself you’d come back for—only to find it gone when you returned. This unique form of buyer’s regret—the regret of not buying—can linger far longer than any remorse over a purchase.
Why Do We Hesitate?
Hesitation in buying often comes down to three factors: uncertainty, timing, and price. Maybe you weren’t sure about authenticity or condition. Perhaps the timing felt off—an unexpected expense made you pause. Or maybe the price, though fair, felt like a stretch. Regardless of the reason, the emotional weight of missing out can be surprisingly heavy, especially when you later realize what an opportunity it was.
The Market Doesn’t Wait
Unlike mass-produced goods, the art and antique market operates on a principle of uniqueness. Once a piece is gone, it’s often gone for good. While some categories have trends and cycles, many exceptional pieces are truly one-of-a-kind. If you’re waiting for a second chance, you may be waiting forever.
Lessons from Non-Buyer’s Remorse
Trust Your Instincts – If something captivates you, there’s a reason. Your gut feeling, backed by research and expertise, is often your best guide.
Understand Market Value – Knowing the market can help you recognize a fair price when you see it. The more informed you are, the quicker and more confidently you can make decisions.
Have a Strategy – Set parameters for what you’re willing to spend and what factors would make you walk away. Being prepared helps reduce hesitation in the moment.
Accept That You Can’t Win Them All – Even the most seasoned collectors and appraisers have missed opportunities. Learning from those moments is part of the journey.
Turning Regret into Action
If you still think about a piece you let slip away, use that experience to refine your approach. Stay in tune with the market, build relationships with dealers and appraisers, and be ready when the next perfect find comes along. Because when it does, you’ll want to be the one who takes it home.