Please bookmark this page to view forthcoming auctions in Devon, Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire.
Tips for buying at auction
Go to auctions regularly and try and attend saleroom previews which usually
take place a few days before the sale. This will give you more time to examine
pieces properly.
Each item in the catalogue shows the price the auction house valuer expects
the object to sell for. Estimates should only ever be taken as a rough guide -
they are never a guarantee of the final sale price.
Check the auctioneer's commission.
Set yourself a bidding limit. Choose a top price and stick with it.
Pay particular attention to the condition of the piece and take into account
the potential cost of restoration
If you can't get to the sale you can usually leave a bid with the commissions
clerk, who will bid on your behalf.
If the bidding is rising rapidly, the auctioneer will usually only take bids
from two people at a time. When one drops out he will look around the room for
someone else to join in. If you are still within your limit make yourself known!