Tips For Attending Your First In-Person Auction
In-person auctions are not as common as they once were. However, if you can find one in your area, attending is sure to be a memorable experience. You can find great deals on a variety of items and have a great time in the process. Here are a few tips to follow the first time you attend an in-person auction.
Register when you arrive
At most auction marketplaces, you are required to register when you arrive. You may pay a small fee to register and be given a paddle. This fee generally goes to the auction house and helps them pay the bills and hire the auctioneers. The paddle you're given when you register is what you'll hold up when you bid on an item.
Decide on your maximum before you start bidding
It is so easy to get carried away and end up bidding either more than you can really afford or more than the item is really worth. A great way to avoid over-bidding is to decide on your maximum amount before you even bid. So, for example, if you see a purse you're interested in, you might decide you'll pay up to $30 for it. Then, if the bidding goes over this amount, you know to stop. You'll already have made the decision beforehand.
Wait for your bid to be acknowledged
After you say your bid amount and hold your paddle in the air, keep that paddle in the air until you hear the auctioneer repeat your bid amount and point to you. The auction floor can get really busy with multiple people bidding and talking at once. If you put your paddle down before you are acknowledged, then the auctioneer may inadvertently miss your bid.
Keep track of items once you win them
As soon as the auctioneer says "sold," the item becomes yours. At some auctions, you are given the item right away so you can go load it in your car. Other times, you may need to wait until a certain time when the auctioneer takes a break to let people collect their items. In either case, keep an eye on the things you've won. Theft from auction houses is not common, but it does happen sometimes.
With the tips above, you should be able to have a great experience at your local auction house. With any luck, you'll win something amazing.
For more information, contact an auction house near you, such as Ancient and Modern Liquidation.
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