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The Auction Process,
There are few buying experiences more fun than an auction. The atmosphere of an auction house can easily become addictive. Anyone who has known the thrill of the bidding process will be able to tell you of purchases made for unheard of prices.
You don't need to be an genius to learn the process nor do you have to be an expert on the goods up for auction. All reputable auction houses will give an honest description of the items as they come up for bidding.
Read our hints and tips to help get you started.
The Auction Process
- Get to the auction early and pick yourself up a catalogue of the days listed items, register with the Sales Office (small $5 refundable deposit required for number issue) and have a good browse at all on offer. Don't be frightened to open cupboards and boxes to have thorough look. Ask for assistance to view items locked in cabinets or to try electrical equipment.
- Take a notepad and write down the Lot numbers of the items you are interested in and the price you are prepared to pay.
- Once bidding starts on your items make sure you are in full view of the Auctioneer or an Assistant and make clear decisive movements when bidding. If bidding reaches your limit make a clear signal to show you are now out of the bidding competition.
- Don't be frightened to make the first bid, a swiftly flowing auction is a good auction for all concerned.
- If you're the winning bidder on the item, hold your number up for the Auctioneer to record your purchase. Mark on your notepad or catalogue that you have won that item and the price you paid. It's easy to forget in all the excitement exactly what you purchased, especially if you bid on a number of items throughout the day.
- Remember that there is a Buyers Premium of 15% on items won at auction. Ask when registering to be clear about the final costing.
- Delivery is made available on large items and is usually priced according to travel distance. Once again ask when registering or before you bid. Asking a relative to help you pick up the grand piano doesn't increase one's popularity within one's family and if you scratch or damage it trying to save a few dollars on delivery you may well be the object of scorn from an irate partner for years to come.
- If you are unable to stay for an item you would like to bid on you may make an Absentee bid on any item before the auction begins. Lots usually progress at the sale rate of 3 lots every 2 minutes or 90 -100 lots per hour. Do your calculations remembering that the Lot order is strictly followed. Just talk to the Sales Staff and they will make note of your Absentee bid. If nobody on the auction floor exceeds your bid you will be contacted and arrangements made for payment and collection.
- Small items may be collected on the day and taken once paid for. Larger items may be collected the following day or by arrangement. Deliveries will usually occur within one week of auctions' end.
- Payments can be made by cash or credit card. Personal cheques cannot be accepted unless prior approval has been given.
