Ways to bid at auction

Although auctions may appear daunting, bidding is very simple. Our well-experienced auctioneers regularly engage with bidders, so you don't need to worry about buying a property with an accidental nod or cough. Auctions are run at a steady pace to allow newcomers to be able to follow the process.

You can bid in multiple ways: online, by proxy, over the telephone, or in-person (where available).

Let's explore each style of bidding in more detail to ensure your preparation ahead of the auction.

Internet Bidding

All our auctions (in-room, livestream and timed) offer the opportunity to bid online via our website.

To bid online, you will need to create a bidder account and upload valid ID and proof of address. Some of our auctions may also require a payment pre-authorisation. This is where a sum of money is held in case you are the winning bidder on the day.

Proxy Bid

If you aren’t available to bid during the auction or want additional support, you can opt to bid via proxy. Proxy bidding is available for in-room, livestream and timed auctions.

During an in-room or livestream auction, the Auctioneer will bid on your behalf up to a maximum amount. During a timed auction, you will input your maximum bid and the system will bid on your behalf.

Bidding is still made incrementally as the auction progresses, and the Auctioneer (or system) will steadily increase your bid in line with competitors until bidding stops or surpasses your maximum amount.

If the bidding stops before you reach your maximum amount, you will secure the property as the winning bidder.

You can register a bidder account on the website and request to bid by proxy or contact the auction team to register with them directly.

Telephone Bid

If you cannot attend in person but are available during the auction, you can choose to bid by telephone.

A team member will call you before your lot comes up in the order of sale. As the bidding commences, the Auctioneer's words will be repeated to you by telephone, and you can instruct the team member to bid on your behalf.

You can register a bidder account on the website and request to bid by telephone or contact the auction team to register with them directly.

In-Person

If the auction is being held in-room, you can attend the auction and bid in-person.

When you arrive, collect a copy of the addendum sheet to review any last-minute updates on the lots up for auction.

Collect a catalogue to follow the auction and prepare for your desired lot. When you want to place a bid, raise your hand and make sure the Auctioneer has acknowledged your bid.

If you have any questions or need guidance, our team is happy to help and assist.

You may be required to pre-register to bid on the website, so please check with the auction team before attending.

 Have a question?

Please reach out to your local team if you would like any further guidance on bidding at auction. You can contact all our offices by email or telephone, and our teams will be happy to assist you.