Buying at Mitchells

Buying is simple. The first thing to do is view the sale. The best way to do this is to attend the pre-sale viewing. For those unable to attend our Fine Art Sale catalogues can be viewed on line and we are able to provide further digital images and condition reports upon request.

Bidding
Bids can be made by the following methods:

In person – buyers attending the sale must register at reception prior to bidding. A bidding number will be allocated to each person registering before the auction begins. If you are a first time bidder you will be asked for your name, address and telephone number in order to create your account.

To place your bid simply raise your paddle number until the auctioneer acknowledges you. The bidding increments are decided by the auctioneer and will usually not exceed 10% of the previous bid. The final bidder purchases the lot. Lots may have a reserve price, which is the confidential minimum selling price previously agreed with the seller. If the bidding fails to reach this price the lot will remain unsold.

Absentee bids, also known as written/commission bids. Buyers unable to attend a sale can leave commission bids with the auctioneers. Commission forms are available in the saleroom and once completed should be returned to the office. Alternatively, commission bids can be faxed to the auctioneers (01900 828073) or emailed (info@mitchellsfineart.com). We will endeavour to buy the lot as cheaply as possible subject to any other bids or reserve prices.

By telephone – prospective purchasers who are unable to attend the sale can used this method of bidding. A member of our saleroom staff will call prior to the relevant lot coming under the hammer. The client can then bid over the telephone being fully aware of how that particular sale is progressing.

Buying charges

All purchases are subject to a buyers premium of 20% including VAT.

Payment
Payments can be made by:

• Cash
• Cheque
• Debit card
• Credit card

There is a surcharge of 2% for the use of credit cards; however no charge is made for the use of debit cards.

If you are wishing to pay by cheque and are not known to us it is advisable to make arrangements before the sale or for references to be supplied. If such arrangements are not made then buyers paying by cheque must wait until the cheque has cleared before goods can be delivered/collected.

Collection and Delivery
Upon payment you may pick up your purchases at the auction location or arrange to have them delivered. We have our own removal vehicle and can arrange delivery both locally and nationally.

We can also pack and post purchases directly to buyers if required.