Buying Something? Tips on Finding the Right Auction House

There are so many police auctions, government auctions, and privately hosted auctions happening across the country. And choosing one may be a bit confusing. Since the type of auction house will make the difference between getting the best deal and going home with nothing, finding the right one is as important as knowing how to bid correctly.



1. Know what you want.



Not all auction houses sell everything you need. Some only sell properties while others focus on certain items such as cars, antiques, artworks, memorabilia or jewelry. Police and government auctions sell various things including real estate properties, vehicles, boats, motorcycles, home furnishings, jewelry, and consumer electronics among others. When you know what you want to buy, you'll know where to go.



2. Do some research.



Finding a public auction is not rocket science. You don't need a degree to find one. Search online and "off-line". Different auction companies and auction houses have websites and newspaper ads where you can get information on when and where the next auction will be. Government and police agencies announce their auction schedules online and on their bulletin boards.



Auctions are also announced in local newspapers especially if the auctioneer is holding it nearby. Do not forget your yellow pages. Auction companies have listings in your dusty old phone book.



Get auction brochures. They contain listings of the items that are about to go on sale which will give you an initial idea on whether the items you are looking for will be sold at the auction or not. In addition, short descriptions are also included in the brochures so that potential buyers get important information on the auction goods.



3. Ask a friend.



Good things are not always a hard find. Sometimes, all you need to do is to ask your neighbor, your officemate or your relative if they know any auction houses.



4. Choose within your proximity.



The main reason why you are choosing auctions over other ways of purchasing goods is because you want to save money. So keep your expenses monitored. The amount to spend on the item is not limited to the final sale. It includes the cost of gasoline you spend on the commute, the food you spend for the day, and the time you waste to participate in the auction, not to mention the depreciation of your car on your way to the auction house and back. In order to keep your expenses low, choose an auction house nearest you.