Sotheby’s Outlines Step-By-Step Guide to Bidding and Selling at Auction
- Mar 26
- 1 min read
Sotheby’s has released a structured guide outlining how clients can participate in its auctions, from exploring catalogues to receiving purchased works, and how potential consignors can obtain auction estimates or choose fixed price options.
Step-By-Step Guide for Buyers
Prospective buyers are first advised to review upcoming sales and available lots through Sotheby’s auction calendar to identify works that match their interests.
To bid in live auctions, clients must complete registration on the Sotheby’s website, while online-only auctions typically allow bidding without additional registration.
Once approved, bidders can place bids online, in the saleroom, by telephone or by absentee bid, following the terms and increments set for each sale.
Successful buyers receive an invoice and a shipping quote after the sale, and Sotheby’s arranges insured shipping and delivery of the purchased property on completion of payment.
Further details on buyer procedures are available in Sotheby’s buying basics and its glossary of terms for auction terminology.
Options for Sellers and Fixed Price Purchases
Owners considering sale can approach Sotheby’s specialist departments for a free and confidential valuation of works across more than 70 collecting categories and to discuss suitability for upcoming auctions.
Sotheby’s also highlights its online marketplace, where collectors can discover and purchase items at fixed prices without waiting for a scheduled auction.
Sellers can request an estimate online and buyers can explore Buy Now offerings on the main Sotheby’s platform.