Tips for selling at auction

How much is my object worth at auction?

Although you may be able to get a general idea from internet research, there’s no substitute for the specialist knowledge available at many auction salerooms.

Either email an image of the object or take it to an auction saleroom in person. Advice is generally free but be prepared for rejection; experts can be pretty blunt!

What if my object for sale at auction is in poor condition?

If it has rarity value, don’t worry too much. Most objects of a certain age show signs of wear and tear and dealers often prefer to buy lots in ‘original condition’. Again take advice from a saleroom specialist.

Are your old coins worth anything?

How do I maximise my return at auction?

Try to match your object to the most appropriate auction. It might fit a specialist sale of similar items which will attract specialist dealers and thus probably a higher price.

A piece of tribal art will probably fetch more in a sale devoted to tribal art. A picture of Suffolk may sell best in Suffolk.

Do I have to sell at any price at auction?

No. You can put a reserve on the item below which it won’t be sold. Salerooms will often discourage high reserves. It’s easier for an auctioneer to start low.

Tips for buying at auction

How much will I have to pay when I sell at auction?

Read a saleroom’s terms and conditions but, generally, the commission for a seller, is around 15% (plus VAT) although there may be other charges to consider. 

Many charge an entry fee (often about £10 per lot). Some charge for catalogue photos. There may be other payments. Leading London auction salerooms tend to charge more than provincial auction houses, although the percentage may drop on high value items.

To get an idea, ask how much you would receive if your lot sells for the reserve. If that puts you off, then ebay (sellers’ fee around 10 %) may be worth a try

Read our guide to selling vintage clothing

Is the commission on sales at auction ever negotiable?

In exceptional cases, yes. If your object is good enough to use to help market the auction you might be able to negotiate a reduction. If you have a prestigious collection, the fees might be waived altogether.

How much luck is involved when you sell at auction?

Auctions are never entirely predictable. That is part of their charm. If two people really want an item, the price can go through the roof. On another day a potentially valuable item will limp to its reserve.

Occasionally an item which fails to sell may achieve a good price at a later auction. There’s no substitute for a bit of luck.

Tips for bidding at auctions