FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Can I view merchandise prior to the day of
auction?
Due to the complicated logistics of assembling a vast
array of items from many different sources, the only viewing time
available is the day of the auction, commencing 1.5 hours prior to the
sale. All items are displayed for prospective buyers to inspect.
2. What is the order of the Sale?
Each auction is
catalogued, with each item receiving a lot number and a description.
The auction progresses in lot order, taking approximately 1 hour per
100 lots.
In the event that a prospective purchaser cannot stay to bid on an
item, we may bring a particular lot forward. This request can be made
during the viewing period or during the auction. We also offer a telephone
bidding service (this must be organised prior to the auction commencing)
or an absentee bid where the auctioneer can execute a bid on your behalf.
Our front desk staff will be happy to discuss and arrange any of these
options with you.
3. How do I bid?
Simply raise your hand, bidding
card or call out your bid. The auctioneer will also accept commonly used
hand signals, which will be explained at the commencement of the
auction.
4. How do I make payment for my purchases?
Payment
for purchases is to be made in Australian dollars on the day of the
auction. We accept cash, eftpos , Amex, Visa, MasterCard, Bankcard &
Diners Club cards. Personal & company cheques can only be accepted
with 3 major forms of identification by the successful purchaser. The
auction company has the discretion to hold the merchandise until the
cheque is cleared, if the cheque exceeds a predetermined amount. Once
payment has been made in full all items can be removed by the purchaser
from the particular venue. In the event where full payment cannot be made
on the day of the auction, a 20% deposit must be lodged immediately after
the auction with full payment due within one working day.
5. Is GST included in the purchase price?
Yes, GST is included in the purchase price and the Buyer's Premium.
Overseas purchasers who are not Australian residents may reclaim the
GST, subject to customs guidelines.
6. What is the a Buyer's Premium?
It is standard practice across all auction houses to add a fee to
the sales price of every item. This fee, known as a Buyer's Premium,
forms part of the commission for the auction house. E.g. if an item
is sold for $100.00 with a 16.5% buyers premium, the final cost to
the purchaser will be
$100 x 16.5% = $116.50
7. Are there any reserves?
There are no fixed
reserves on the items for sale. However, the auctioneers have wide
discretion and can refuse a bid, refer or pass in an item if they deem the
bid to be unreasonable.
8. Can I change my mind on an item already
purchased?
No, all auction houses require customers inspect
potential purchases thoroughly during the scheduled viewing of goods and
evaluate their priorities before bidding.
9. Do you have a delivery service available?
We can
recommend some delivery companies, should you need to arrange delivery of
large items to your home. In the event that delivery is not available on
the day of the auction, in most cases the goods can be left at the venue
for your collection the following day. Purchase conditions stated above
still apply.
10. How do I find out about future auctions?
Simply
register with the front desk staff at an auction, or register online to
receive notice of future auctions in your area.
11. Why do people buy at Charleston's Fine Art Auctions?
Our customers list the following reasons for returning time and again
to Charleston's Fine Art Auctions:
- Reputable source of fine art since 1997
- Value for money
- Being able to determine the price of an item
- Superior quality and selection of goods offered
- Friendly, relaxed atmosphere
- Guaranteed catalogue descriptions
- The environment at Charleston's Fine Art Auctions is exciting
– with the thrilling prospect of purchasing a remarkable piece
at the right price.
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