If you have not viewed the lots for auction prior to the auction day, we suggest that you allow time to inspect your prospective purchases before the auction starts. Some auctions, however, may not allow you to view the lots other than at the specified viewing dates and times. With some catalog auctions, you may not be allowed to view the lots after the auction has started. You should confirm these details with Showcase Auctioneers & Appraisers prior to the auction date.

When a lot you are interested in bidding on comes up for sale, the auctioneer will announce the lot number and give a brief description of the item. A starting bid will be suggested by the auctioneer. If the item has a reserve price, the auctioneer will often start the bidding above this price and reduce the start bid towards the reserve price until a bid is made. The auction catalog will usually display a guide price for the item, which is above the item's reserve price. You are free to start bidding at any time after the auctioneer has announced the starting bid. Some auctions, especially liquidations, bankruptcies and receiverships have no reserve prices; so give it a little time before you start your bidding. If there are no other bidders, your first bid may be the price you pay.

If your bid is the final bid, and the price reached is above the item's reserve price, you have been successful in your purchase. After you have won the bid, you will have to pay an immediate deposit. The amount of deposit will be stated in the terms and conditions of the auction catalog. The type of payment method will be stipulated in the catalog.