Some auction advice from Shauna

My friend Shauna Farren-Price is an auctioneer at Lawson’s in Annandale. Shauna’s been in the industry since 1992 so I thought I’d ask her some questions and share her top tips with you here:

What’s the best attitude to take with you to an auction house?
With a general sale an open mind is a good starting point. There can be such a variety of things on sale that if you’re too focused on getting that particular item then you may overlook another. Take your time and try and view the day before the auction, have a tape measure handy and know the dimensions of the wall or floor space you’re trying to furnish. When you’ve done the preparation in a methodical way, carry this attitude through to the bidding stage and don’t buy something on the spur of the moment which you haven’t inspected previously. Just because something’s selling for next to nothing does not a bargain make.

What should you look out for?
In all objects I think the watch word is quality or craftsmanship. Something which is well made will be a sound investment whether it’s an antique or a modern item. Open doors and pull drawers out to see how they fit together and slide. Check how the back of an object is finished as well as the front, and check to see if the keys are available. If there’s damage check whether it’s cosmetic or structural and assess whether a repair would be something you could tackle yourself or factor in restoration/re-upholstery. Check for signs of bora infestation (pin prick holes and sawdust).

What things seem to be flying off the auction house floor?
Large French farmhouse tables and pretty chandeliers, armoires, good Georgian dining room furmiture and anything industrial ie 1940s enamelled pendant lighting, stainless steel and timber workshop tables, taxidermy. People like to throw a good dinner party and have something different to show off.

Your sourcing or bidding techniques?
Good sourcing is vital and can save hours. Most auction houses have online catalogues and newsletters so you know what to expect before you visit. At Lawsons we have a lot alert system which takes the effort out of trawling through catalogues: register a wishlist keyword and receive an email alert when something matches your search. Always buy or download a catalogue to keep track of the sale. Ask the relevant specialist for estimates if they don’t appear in the catalogue. Decide what something’s worth to you and stick to it. Don’t forget to factor in buyer’s premium which is usually 15-20% and make sure if it’s something large you have a way of getting it home. Most auction houses have a list of carriers or rental trucks to hand.

Sometimes there will be two or more auctions running at once which is tricky even for the seasoned bidder. Work out the speed at which the auctioneer runs through the lots so you can time your bidding and coffee breaks accordingly. Most general sales see about 90 lots an hour.

If you can’t be in two places at once make use of the absentee bid facility. Never hesitate to leave a bid because you think the item will go for much more than you’re prepared to pay. I’ve missed out a hundred times and kick myself for not leaving a bid because I thought something would go higher than I could manage. The auctioneer won’t be offended by the sight of a cheeky bid on the book, although sometimes it produces a bit of mirth.

What are the things you would buy yourself or think are great bargains?
It’s not politically correct but I would snap up fur coats by the dozen if I had somewhere to store or wear them. Costume Jewellery is another product which sells by the bagload and contains some interesting treasures. Other bargains include things which can be repurposed; such as an old theodolite which can be turned into a lamp or gunmetal architect’s table used as a plasma stand. These will look amazing and unique. With art, sometimes the frame is more interesting than the picture and can be a work of art in its own right.

Any trends you’re noticing?
Something that has struck me lately is the new wave of buyers coming through the salerooms; possibly out of necessity to budget well or through curiosity, or perhaps the recycling message is really hitting home lately and secondhand is de rigeur.

- Thanks Shauna, you’re a star!

Lawson’s is open for viewing today from 1pm. The general estate auction takes place from 9:30am tomorrow.

I tell you what, it’s worth taking a day off to go to these once in a while. You’ll be bidding against all those chi chi boutique owners who snap this stuff up, give it a lick of paint, then whack a massive price tag on it.

Good luck, and happy auctioneering!