Why Auction Travel Matters With nearly thirty years of auction‐ travel experience, we understand how daunting a first auction can be. Here’ s a concise guide to help you attend confidently—and maybe even turn your trip into a profit.
1. Finding Your First Auction • Use Auction Travels or Auction Walk on YouTube to locate upcoming sales. • These platforms aggregate dates, times, and basic lots across multiple houses. • Once you pick an auction, visit the house’s website for full catalogs, terms, photos, and condition reports. This research is crucial.
2. Research & Watchlist • Examine item descriptions, zoom in on images, and note any repairs or authenticity concerns. • Record item numbers or use the site’s watchlist/app feature. • If details are unclear, contact the auction house for extra photos or clarification.
3. Bidding Basics • Register on arrival and receive your paddle or bidder number. Keep it visible. • Listen to early lots to learn the auctioneer’s bidding increments (e.g., $25, $50, $100). • Stay focused and resist getting swept up in the room’s energy.
4. Competition & Reserves • Expect absentee, phone, and online bidders. They may bid more rationally—or aggressively—from afar. • Some lots have reserves—a minimum sale price. If the reserve isn’t met, the lot is withdrawn. The auctioneer will announce when a reserve is met.
5. Strategic Bidding • Late in the sale, when bids fall to the minimum increment, one quick bid can win. • Others often drop out once someone bids; decisiveness can score bargains. • This tactic works best when competitors’ budgets are exhausted or fatigue sets in.
6. Logistics: Pickup & Delivery • Ask beforehand about pickup times, storage, and freight or shipping options—especially for large items. • Plan vehicle rental or arrange a shipper if needed. You don’t want to win a bulky armoire with no way home.
7. Comfort & Budget • Auctions can last hours. Check if refreshments are available or bring your own. • Dress in layers, bring water, snacks, a notebook, and a pen. • Set and stick to a strict budget to avoid auction fever.
Your Auction Adventure Awaits Auctions blend travel, treasure hunting, and the chance for unique finds. Start local or plan a weekend getaway around a sale you love. Trust your research, bid confidently, and don’t hesitate to ask questions—the auction community is welcoming. Happy bidding, and may you uncover treasures that delight for years to come!
