The changing face of auctions

 

Last month, a local Estate Agents and Auctioneers reported that internet bids made up 15% of overall sales from its August auction, a figure which is set to rise considerably.

 

McCartneys sold 500 lots during a buoyant August sale with internet bids accounting for 22% of the final sales value, a huge increase on the previous month.

 

In light of this result, local partner Tom Carter said: “Our Portcullis Saleroom is proving hugely popular with online bidders since we introduced the internet bidding facility together with our on-line illustrated catalogues. It opens the auctions up to a global audience and gives sellers the best possible exposure for their property and the highest prices.”

 

In one example, a tinplate boat ‘The Grace Darling’, an advertising toy for Carr and Co. of biscuit fame, carried an estimate of £30-50 and when bids in the room finished at £70, an explosion of online action took it to £240.

 

McCartneys, who have offices in both Newtown and Welshpool, are inviting entries now for their next antique sale on September 21.