Art as an investment, buying and selling art for profit, valuation of oil paintings.

Investing in art is becoming increasingly popular. Like any other investment, the greater your knowledge about the subject, the higher your returns are likely to be. It is advisable to initially consult or work with an experienced buyer. For persons experienced in buying and selling art the returns on the investment can be much higher than any other investment.

There are different types of paintings available.  The most common type of paintings are the decorative art, basically purchased to enhance the interiors of  the room. While they may be of good quality , they are usually painted by unlisted artists and are unlikely to increase in value. Companies from China and Russia supply decorative paintings which are copies of  paintings by famous painters at low rates.

Collectable art is purchased by an art collector, who buys paintings because he likes a  particular painting. It is usually purchased in small numbers, is of medium quality and the buyer does not intend to resell it for a profit initially.

 Investment quality art is of high value and purchased by art collectors, investors and dealers worldwide. If maintained well, it almost always appreciates in value. These paintings are valuable because their high quality and scarcity of  similar paintings. Usually large horizontal paintings on subjects like landscapes, animals, women, flowers, fruits in bright colors are more valuable.  However, smaller paintings may be costlier per square foot, since they require less space to display.  Only original paintings by reputed artists should be purchased. The artist should have sold many paintings in auctions, and the painting should be signed and dated by the artist.