Welcome to our insider’s guide to winning at auctions! Our team of seasoned bidders has compiled a list of tips and tricks to help you secure the items you desire at the best possible price. With years of experience in the industry, we have learned what works and what doesn’t. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned bidder, these tips are sure to give you an edge at your next auction. The upcoming auction promises to be a treasure trove for collectors of vintage petroliana, with a wide selection of antique gas pumps, oil cans, and advertising signage up for bidding.
- Do your research Before attending an auction, it is important to research the items up for bid. This includes researching the current market value of the items, as well as any relevant historical information that may affect their value. This will give you an idea of what to expect and will help you set a realistic budget for bidding.
- Arrive early Arriving early to an auction will give you a chance to inspect the items up for bid and get a feel for the auctioneer’s style. You will also have an opportunity to network with other bidders and gain insights into the items you are interested in.
- Set a budget It is important to set a budget before attending an auction. This will help you avoid overbidding and spending more than you can afford. Stick to your budget and resist the urge to get caught up in the excitement of the bidding process.
- Register to bid Make sure to register to bid before the auction starts. This will allow you to participate in the bidding process and ensure that you are eligible to purchase the items you desire. Registration usually requires a valid ID and a deposit, so be prepared.
- Understand the bidding process Before the auction starts, make sure you understand the bidding process. This includes understanding the bid increments and the auctioneer’s signals. If you are unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to ask the auctioneer or a staff member for clarification.
- Pay attention During the bidding process, it is important to pay attention to the other bidders and their signals. This will give you an idea of their intentions and can help you make informed decisions about your bids. Pay attention to the auctioneer’s calls and be ready to act quickly if necessary.
- Be strategic Don’t be afraid to employ a bit of strategy when bidding. This can include waiting until the last minute to make your bid, placing a low initial bid to throw off other bidders, or bidding in odd increments to confuse the competition.
- Don’t get emotional It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of the bidding process, but it is important to stay rational and avoid getting emotional. Stick to your budget and don’t let your emotions drive up the price of an item.
- Know when to quit Sometimes, it is best to know when to quit. If an item exceeds your budget or if the bidding becomes too intense, it may be time to bow out gracefully. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price becomes too high.
- Follow up After the auction is over, be sure to follow up on any items you have won. Make sure to pay for and collect your items in a timely manner. If you are unable to attend the auction in person, make arrangements to have your items shipped to you.
We hope these insider tips will help you become a successful bidder at your next auction. Remember to do your research, set a budget, and stay strategic during the bidding process. With a bit of preparation and some insider knowledge, you can win the items you desire at the best possible price.
