A guide to buying at Auction | Robert Bell & Company

Buying at auction (before, during and after)

Buying at auction is a straightforward process when you know what to expect. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to do before, during and after the sale to secure your perfect lot.

Online Catalogues: Fully detailed catalogues with photographs are available online via easyliveauction.com approximately two weeks before each sale. Printable versions are available on our website, and limited unillustrated paper copies can be requested from the auctioneers.

In-Person Viewing: Visit the Old School Sale Room, Queen Street, Horncastle, LN9 6BG, during Open Viewing on the two days prior to the sale. Specific times are provided for each event.

In-Person Bidding: Register at Open Viewing or the Pay Office on sale day to receive a paddle number for bidding.

Commission (Absentee) Bidding: Leave a maximum bid in advance, and the auctioneer will bid on your behalf up to your limit. Submit bids via a Bidding Slip or email (**auctions@robert-bell.org**) by 9:00 am on sale day.

Online Bidding: Register with easyliveauction.com to participate in the live webcast. Note that this is a live auction, not an internet-only sale.

Telephone Bidding: Available for lots estimated over £50. Requests must be made by 4:00 pm the day before the sale. A "cover bid" is recommended in case of connection issues.

Enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with catering on-site and the excitement of a busy sale room.

Payment Options: Accepted methods include cash, debit card, personal credit card, and BACS transfer.

Collection: Items can be collected by appointment from the Queen Street Store Room or other designated locations. No collections are allowed on Sale Day.

Courier Services: Contact Pack & Send for national and international delivery: lincoln@packsend.co.uk 01522 300220

Third-Party Couriers: You may use your own courier, but they must be prepared to pack your items.

Experience the thrill of auction buying with our efficient and customer-focused process!

Our buyer’s premium is 15% plus VAT. Additional fees apply when bidding online. Our full Terms and Conditions of Sale are available to view and should be consulted prior to placing a bid.

See our Terms & Conditions and Entry Form here.

Tips for attending and bidding at a live auction

There’s nothing quite like the buzz of a live auction! If you’re attending in person or joining online, here’s what you need to know to make your visit smooth and successful.

For questions about buying or selling, contact us:

01507 522222 (Option 3)

auctions@robert-bell.org

Bring a Catalogue: Have a printed copy of the auction catalogue for reference.
Review Terms & Conditions: Understand the sale terms, including the Buyer’s Premium.
Use your paddle or card to signal the auctioneer.
Start bidding early to confirm your interest.
Bid quickly and clearly to avoid missing out.

Online bidding is a convenient alternative but carries more risks compared to attending in person or leaving a Commission Bid.

Key Considerations & Tips:

This is a live webcast auction, not an internet-only auction.
Ensure your broadband is fast and stable to avoid crashes or freezes.
Use the latest version of your web browser with all updates installed.
Hover over the "Bid" button to show interest.
Start bidding early and act quickly - small delays can cause missed opportunities.
Remember, the auctioneer cannot see your expressions, so clarity is crucial.

Items Sold ‘As Seen’: There are no guarantees; inspect items during the pre-sale viewing.
No Returns: Distance Selling Regulations do not apply. Once the hammer falls, the sale is final.

Auction FAQs

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Most sales take place at our Queen Street Sale Room in Horncastle, though property and farm dispersals may be held on-site.

Antique and general furniture sales take place roughly every six weeks, with specialist auctions scheduled throughout the year.

Yes, we offer open viewing two days before each sale. Times are listed on our website and in auction catalogues.

Yes, leave your maximum bid via a bidding slip or email before 9:00 am on sale day and we’ll bid on your behalf.

Yes, register through easyliveauction.com to join our live webcast auctions. A buyer’s premium and internet surcharge apply.

Yes, for lots estimated over £50. Requests must be submitted by 4:00 pm the day before the sale.

Our buyer’s premium is 15% plus VAT. Additional online bidding fees apply when using easyliveauction.com.

Collections are by appointment from Queen Street or other designated locations. No collections are allowed on the sale day.

We recommend Pack & Send for national and international shipping. You may also use your own courier if they can pack your items.

Residential Lettings

Need key documents for residential lettings? See our useful downloads here - if you require any further information please contact us or visit our lettings page for more info.

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Residential Lettings T&Cs

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Auction FAQs

Here are some of the questions we’re most often asked about our auctions - from antiques to property, farm dispersals to online bidding.