Five simple guidelines help collectors evaluate artists and paintings,and reduce the risk of
being overcharged, in a new free book from Ackermans Fine Art.

A poor economy often serves as a wake-up call to the need to be better informed about your investments. So says an expert in buying and selling fine art, Kenny Ackerman, founder of Ackerman's Fine Art gallery, and author of the newly released eBook A Practical Guide to Buying Fine Art: 5 Guidelines for Investing in FineArt Paintings.

Stocks and most traditional investments were hit hard in 2008 and 2009. Recent interest in fine art has grown dramatically as an alternative investment and for personal satisfaction.

"Art has held its value as well if not better than any other asset besides gold," Ackerman explains. "Fine art prices actually regained their value faster than most stocks did. Of course, it depends on the artist and the quality of the art."

To help experienced and new collectors navigate the art market, Ackerman's Fine Art is offering the eBook: A Practical Guide to Buying Fine Art: 5 Guidelines for Investing in Fine Art Paintings. It's a 25-page illustrated guide, with expert advice gained from millions of dollars in transactions and years of professional experience in evaluating fine artworks.

Five simple guidelines help new and seasoned collectors develop a sense of how to evaluate artists and
paintings they want to acquire.

Not only will readers learn how to reduce the risk of being overcharged for a work of art. Readers also find out

- Why it's critical to pace yourself when getting started
- What is most important when looking at condition and authenticity
- How to find a trustworthy art dealer

Those who request the guide by email also get a free follow-up series of 5 detailed articles about factors that impact the quality and financial value of a painting.

A Practical Guide to Buying Fine Art: 5 Guidelines for Investing In Fine Art Paintings is for people ready to invest seriously in fine art, who are looking to buy pieces they love, but who also need to know what makes a good investment. Readers can sign up to receive the eBook free at http://ackermansfineart.com/artbuyersguide.