Buying at Auction

Practical guidance on bidding strategies, payment methods and avoiding common pitfalls when purchasing at auctions. Articles cover everything from spotting fake collectibles to understanding your consumer rights.

Beware of the Invisible Bidder
Beware of the Invisible Bidder
How auctioneers use fake bidders to push property prices higher and what you need to know to protect yourself.
Buying a Holiday at Auction
Buying a Holiday at Auction
Bid on holiday packages at auction sites to save roughly half the retail price, though you'll need flexibility with available dates and destinations.
Buying Collectibles and Memorabilia at Auction
Buying Collectibles and Memorabilia at Auction
Figure out why you're bidding on collectibles before you enter an auction, whether it's for profit or personal collection.
Consumer Law and Auction Goods
Consumer Law and Auction Goods
Right, let's talk about auctions and your consumer rights — because the reality is, it's not as simple as walking into John Lewis and knowing exactly...
How to Avoid Buying a Wreck at a Car Auction
How to Avoid Buying a Wreck at a Car Auction
Bring a mechanic and inspect carefully before bidding at car auctions, since you can't return vehicles sold as-is.
How to Avoid Forgeries, Fakes and Fraud at Auction
How to Avoid Forgeries, Fakes and Fraud at Auction
Check what to watch for at in-person and online auctions to avoid buying fakes, forgeries and getting caught in bidding scams.
How to Bid at an Auction
How to Bid at an Auction
Learn when to bid, how much to offer, and what methods work best whether you're bidding in person, by phone, or online.
How to Pay for Goods at Auction
How to Pay for Goods at Auction
You'll need to pay in full when you win at auction, but payment methods and timing depend on the item and auction type.
Problem with an Item Bought at Auction
Problem with an Item Bought at Auction
Your rights when you buy a faulty item at auction and how to claim compensation.
Sealed Bid Buying
Sealed Bid Buying
Sealed bid auctions work differently than regular ones, you submit one bid without knowing what others are offering or the chance to adjust.
The Importance of the Home Valuation
The Importance of the Home Valuation
Getting a proper home valuation before an auction protects you from overpaying and losing money on a property purchase.
The Legal Implications of Buying at Auction
The Legal Implications of Buying at Auction
Understand the legal risks and obligations involved when buying property or goods at auction before you bid.
Tips for Buying Property at Auction
Tips for Buying Property at Auction
Get your finances sorted and inspect the property before bidding at auction to avoid costly mistakes.
What Can Buy at an Auction?
What Can Buy at an Auction?
Learn which items are worth bidding on at auctions and how to avoid wasting your time and money on the wrong lots.
When Charity Auctions Go Wrong
When Charity Auctions Go Wrong
Charity auctions need careful planning to avoid common pitfalls and actually raise the money you're counting on.
Why Buy at Auction Instead of at Shop?
Why Buy at Auction Instead of at Shop?
Auctions can offer real bargains and rare finds that shops don't stock, plus it's genuinely fun to bid and win.