FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I view the sale?
Regular auctions
- Saturday before the auction: 10am–12 noon
- Tuesday before the auction: 10am–4pm
- Auction morning: 9am–9.30am (final viewing)
Fine Sales
- Additional viewing on the Sunday before the auction, 2.30pm–4.30pm.
What time do your auctions start?
All auctions begin at 9.30am.
Can I watch the auction online?
Yes. You can watch the live auction stream on sale day via our website without registering to bid.
How do I bid?
See our Buying with Us page for in-room, absentee, telephone and online bidding options.
How do I cancel a bid?
Please contact us as soon as possible on 01267 233456 or email [email protected]. Once a lot is sold, a legally binding contract is formed and it cannot be cancelled.
How often do you hold auctions?
We hold regular auctions throughout the year, usually on Wednesdays. See the Auction Calendar for upcoming dates.
What are your fees?
Buyer’s Premium: 21% + VAT. Selling fees vary — see Selling with Us for details.
Why are your commission rates higher than some local competitors?
We are a professionally qualified and regulated auction house. We operate client money protection with separate client accounts, carry professional indemnity insurance, run fully catalogued sales with live internet bidding, and employ accredited staff — all of which supports stronger results and higher service standards.
Why are professional qualifications important?
In the UK, auctioneers are not required to be licensed. Professional accreditation helps ensure client funds are protected, insurance is in place, and ethical standards are followed. See Professional Qualifications for more.
What are the different types of auctions?
- Fine Sales: Higher-value items (typically £150+) including fine art, jewellery, silver, and militaria — held three times a year.
- Antiques, Furnishings & Collectors: Our regular, mixed-category sales held throughout the year.
- Timed online / Specialist sales: Themed or single-owner collections (see the Auction Calendar).
I have an item I’d like valued — how do I begin?
You can email or WhatsApp us images, visit on a Valuation Day (by appointment), or book a home visit for larger consignments. Verbal valuations are free.
When are your valuation days?
Every other Friday (appointment only) at our Carmarthen salerooms:
- 10am–12pm
- 2pm–4pm
Jewellery, Art & Militaria valuations run on Friday mornings by appointment. Specialist events run through the year — see Free Valuation Days for updates.
Do you charge for probate, inheritance tax and insurance valuations?
Yes. Written valuations are chargeable. The minimum probate valuation (home visit) is £350 + VAT. Call 01267 233456 for a free quotation.
When will my items go through an auction?
Most consignments enter a sale within 3–9 weeks. Fine or specialist items may be held for the most suitable auction.
Some of my items are listed — where are the others?
Consignments can be split due to space, category scheduling, or suitability (e.g. Fine Sales). Everything goes into the earliest appropriate auction unless otherwise agreed.
Will I be notified when my items are catalogued?
Yes. We send a Pre-Sale Advice (by email or post) the week before the auction with lot number, description, estimate and reserve (if set).
Can I place a reserve?
Yes. Reserves can be placed on items estimated at £50+. Choose a fixed reserve or a discretionary reserve (up to 10% flexibility). Unsold fees apply if an item with a reserve fails to sell.
What if I change my mind about selling?
Contact us immediately on 01267 233456. If an item is already catalogued, a withdrawal fee of £48 (inc. VAT) per lot applies, plus standard unsold charges.
When will I be paid?
Payments are issued three weeks after the auction by bank transfer (preferred) or cheque. Cheques incur a £5 admin fee.
What happens if my items do not sell?
Unsold lots are automatically re-entered into the next suitable sale unless you request collection.
