How to Buy:

If you are an auction novice, new Motley’s customer, or a seasoned veteran who just wants to review our process, you have come to the right place.

Auctions allow you to set the price you are willing to pay and this step-by-step guide will enable you to become a winner!

Step #1 Register for VIP Membership

  • It’s fast & easy. Click the Join VIP box located on all pages of www.motleys.com
  • Receive Priority Auction Notification – Be one of the first to know about upcoming auctions!
  • Last Minute Addition Notices – Find out extra items added at the last minute
  • Emergency Purchasing Opportunities – Some clients really want their items sold fast and VIP members are emailed these opportunities

Step #2 Review the Items in our Auction Sections of www.motleys.com

  • Click the Current Auctions button on the left hand bar to see all of Motley’s current auctions.
  • To only view the auctions of a certain division, click the division name and then click “Current Auctions” in red header bar.
  • Scroll down to the auction of interest and click to go to that auction. (Hotlinks available to the brochure and catalog once posted.)
  • The following may be available for each auction:
    • Showcase Gallery
    • Featured Items
    • Location, Time, Inspection Info
    • Brochure Download
    • Auction Catalog
    • Addition Information Downloads
    • Terms & Conditions
    • How to Buy at the Auction
    • How to Sell Similar Items

Step #3 Attend a free preview of the offerings (as available)

  • Inspection availability and times are noted on the Auction Page and are usually the day(s) prior to the auction and the just prior to a sale.
    Some previews have established preview times and some may be by appointment only.
  • Use an auction catalog to record notes about items of interest. Some catalogs are complimentary and some are sold for a nominal fee.

Step #4 Register for the Auction and Choose a Bidding Method

All participants in an auction must register prior to placing a bid regardless of the bidding method they plan to use.

Bidding Methods – Depending on the auction type, up to four methods may be utilized to become a winner.

  • In-Person – Bring your Photo ID to register at the sale location where you’ll receive a Bid Number allowing you to participate in the fun! During the auction, the auctioneer will announce bids and will be assisted by several bid assistants. Simply raise your Bid Number to place a bid and continue until you are the last hand up. It’s that easy to become a winner!
  • On-Line –Select gallery and onsite auctions allow remote Live internet bidding from the convenience of your home or office. Other auctions may only allow Internet Bidding.

    If a “Bid Online” tab appears on the auction information tab, then this auction will allow Online Bidding. Click the “BID ONLINE” tab for guidance on how to register, review items, and place your bids.

  • Telephone Bids – If you cannot attend the auction in person, and prefer to bid over the telephone, we will call you Live from the auction and relay your bids.
  • Absentee Bids – If you will be unavailable entirely during the auction you can still participate. Depending on the auction you can leave bids online, or download the Absentee/Phone Bid Form under Documents. Fill out completely, enter your maximum bids, and fax it back to us. Your maximum bids will be competitively represented as if you were in the audience.

Step #5 Arrange For Payment

  • If your bid was successful, an invoice will show your total amount due (includes your high bid price, buyer’s premium, as well as any applicable taxes and/or fees). You can retrieve your invoice in person or we can send it by email or fax for your convenience
  • Please make sure to pay for your invoice according to the terms of the auction to avoid the possibility of late fees.
  • Each auction has specific payment terms and conditions so make sure to check the Terms tab under the auction for complete details.

Step #6 Make Shipping Arrangements

  • Onsite pickup is available at established times or by appointment only.
  • Click Documents for a list of vendors capable of assisting with the preparation and local and international shipment of your purchases.
    Ensure your removal is completed within the timeframe allowed to avoid storage charges.
  • Extended storage is available at reasonable rates by contacting Motley’s.