How to win at auctions, both online and irl
No bids, no glory: Five shopping tips to make the most of your auction experience.
By Steve Gow
Nova Scotia may not attract attention from high-end auction houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s, but local firm Crowther & Brayley runs good auctions in hockey arenas (the next is March 21). And the world of online auctions is accessible from your phone. But just because any amateur can make a bid, doesn’t mean there aren’t lessons to learn.
Melanie and Bob Mather run Lo + Behold, an online auction house and vintage shop near Peggys Cove that specializes in selling retro-chic collectors items, vintage toys, signs and other rare and unique odds and ends. Here are Melanie’s tips for making the best bid, both online and irl.
Cap your spending limit
It's easy to get sucked in at an auction when the frantic bidding wars begin—and rest assured, the price will always go up, never down. Treat it like gambling, and know when to fold 'em. "Definitely set the number, write it down," says Mather. "Then you can go back and say, 'here's my list, here is my agenda of how I'm going to bid on this.'"
Know the costs
"Not everybody realizes there are two fees typically involved," says Mather. She insists online bidders should do their research and factor in provincial tax. There is also a "buyer's premium" charge that will cover administrative and packaging costs. While Lo + Behold charges 15 percent, it can vary with other auctioneers. "Make sure you know what the fine print is, and make sure you're aware how the process works."
Ask questions
At live auctions, potential buyers can physically inspect items, but there are opportunities to obtain important information online as well. "A lot of auction houses have multiple channels of contact," says Mather, who often answers questions from would-be bidders through social media. "Be sure to look at descriptions and measurements."
Timing is everything
Sure, patience is a virtue. But it can also nab you a hell of a bargain at auctions! "Usually if you stick it out to the end, you'll get unbelievable deals," insists Mather. "Because you're the only one there bidding, you can get entire tables of stuff for a buck."
No regrets
After you do make that bid, don't fret about whether you have overpaid for an item. Relax. Enjoy the experience and your new acquisition. "I truly believe the market tells you exactly what the value is," says Mather. "It's a tricky dance, [but] whatever an item sells for is what it's worth."
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