Buying at Auction

Buying at Auction

One of the most exciting ways to buy antiques, art, collectables, furniture, office equipment, tools (or just about anything else you can think of) is by auction. The mounting anticipation as the lot you want to buy comes up; the thrill of the bidding and the joy of a succesful purchase. However, some people feel intimidated or apprehensive at the thought of attending a sale; worried that they might accidentally buy an expensive item by an ill-timed wave to a friend or an innocent cough.

Help is at hand with this extensive guide to buying at auction; you'll find advice and guidance that will dispel those fears and help you to familiarise yourself with all the auction room procedures; from viewing the items to making a bid, all the way to working out how much you've spent. There's also a look at all your most frequently asked questions about how to successfully buy at an auction. Happy bidding!

Viewing
Examining items for sale before making a bid ...
Catalogues
You essential guide to the objects on sale at an auction ...
Registering
Providing the auction house with your details in order to make a bid ...
Types of Bids
The three major forms of bidding at an auction ...
How to Bid
Going once, going twice ...
Bid Increments
A look at how the bids are raised as the lot price increases ...
Bidding Tips
The finer points of making a bid ...
Charges
A look at buyer's premium and other fees that you'll need to pay in addition to the final sale price ...
Auctions & the Law
Know your rights before you make a bid ...
Buying at Auction FAQs
Find the most commonly encountered questions about buying at auctions here in our FAQ section ...