Can I pay in instalments?
RA-te — two syllables; the 'r' is rolled; stress on the first. 'Rate' is the plural of 'rata' (instalment).
Use this for expensive pieces when you want to negotiate a payment arrangement. While not all sellers accept this, many established dealers are flexible for trusted or regular customers.
'Pagare in rate' (to pay in instalments) is an informal financing arrangement at antique markets. You might pay 50% now and the rest on collection. 'A rate' and 'in rate' are both used. This is more common at established dealers than casual market stalls.
Posso lasciare una caparra e tornare domani con il resto?
Can I leave a deposit and come back tomorrow with the rest?
'Caparra' = deposit — a common arrangement at Italian markets
Me lo riserva se le do un acconto?
Will you reserve it for me if I give you a down payment?
'Riservare' = to reserve; 'acconto' = down payment
Accetta bancomat o solo contanti?
Do you accept card or only cash?
Many antique market stalls prefer cash (contanti)
Leaving a caparra (deposit) to reserve a piece is a very Italian commercial tradition, rooted in the country's contract law. Under Italian Civil Code, a caparra confirmatoria (confirmatory deposit) creates a binding obligation — if the buyer withdraws, they lose the deposit; if the seller withdraws, they must return double. Market sellers often use this arrangement informally.