Find the right lots

The best starting place is to watch live auctions online to get a feel for them and see how things operate. You will need to register first and may have to enter your credit card details and address.

You can register directly with an established auction house or use online aggregators such as Easy Live Auction.

To test the water you can bid in advance, which means you are not at risk of going over budget. When you are more confident you simply click on the bid button. But remember it is a legal contract so at this point you cannot change your mind.

Spend time learning the lingo. If something is described as Georgianstyle it does not mean it is Georgian. Also terms like ‘as found’ mean there is likely to be a fault on the item.

Auction houses will specialise in different items such as art, antiques or modern furniture. Shop around and then spend time looking at the different lots. Sites like Bidspotter specialise in commercial auctions when companies are liquidating and this can be a great place to pick up office items.

Some lots will focus on particular products like books or collectables. And general sales can include house clearances and be more of a gamble because you don’t always know exactly what’s in a miscellaneous box.

Do your research

Compare the reserve price with similar items being sold on eBay and see what price things are selling for on other auction sites.

It is also important to scrutinise catalogue photos and descriptions making note of serial numbers and trademarks that can highlight the authenticity of a lot.

Zoom in on photos and check the tops and legs of furniture where damage is most likely to be.

You can also contact the auction to ask for a condition report and more photos or ask them to phone up and talk you around the showroom.

Set a budget