Right now is not a great time to sell second hand rugs, the market being influenced by fashion, affordability and availability.
Fashion is something that should not affect the rug market, but people are buying rugs for their shape and colour. Light pastels and creams are in vogue, hence the rich dark wine colours, blues and browns are not as desirable.
The economy has certainly had an affect on the values, with mainly dealers snapping up lower prices at auction.
The good news is, that like most things in the antique market, it goes in circles. What is fashionable now goes out of fashion, then comes round again, regaining popularity and hence price.
Hold on to anything you may be considering selling for a while, the market will come back.