FAQs About Auction Calendar: Everything You Need to Know

Whether you're a seasoned bidder or just starting out, Auction Calendar offers a range of features designed to make discovering, tracking, and participating in upcoming auctions easier than ever. From personalised updates to direct contact with auctioneers, our platform is built to streamline your auction experience.

Here are answers to the most common questions to help you get the most out of Auction Calendar.

How Do I Find Auctions Near Me or in a Specific Category?

Click on Auctions and use our smart filters to narrow your search. You can filter by location, category (real estate, vehicles, movables, agriculture), subcategory, auction type (online or onsite), and date.

How Do I Stay Updated on Upcoming Auctions Without Constantly Checking the Site?

• Click “Save Alert” on the Auctions page based on your preferences
• Sign up for our newsletter to receive auction updates straight to your inbox
• Open an auction listing and select “Set Reminder” at the top right-hand side

Can I Register for an Auction Directly Through Auction Calendar?

Yes. Many listings include a direct link to the auction house’s registration page. If no link is provided, check the “Join Online” section or contact the auctioneer directly for more information.

What Types of Auctions Are Listed on Auction Calendar?

• Real estate (real estate, including homes, land, and commercial properties)
• Vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more)
• Movables (furniture, antiques, machinery, commercial equipment, electronics, and more)
• Agricultural (farm equipment, machinery, and livestock)

Is There a Fee To Use Auction Calendar?

No. Auction Calendar is free for buyers. You can browse auctions, view details, and access auctioneer links at no cost. For the best experience, create a free account to save favourite auctions, set alerts, and more.

How will the final payment be calculated?

Depending on the type of auction (property or vehicle, for example), you will need to factor in additional fees beyond the hammer price. Essentially, your final price will include your bid price, buyer’s commission and VAT. Transfer fees and vehicle documentation fees will also be included if you have bought a vehicle or property at auction. 

What is a minimum bid? 

A minimum bid, also known as a "reserve price," is the lowest amount that a seller is willing to accept for a property or item at an auction. It serves as a safeguard for the seller, ensuring that the item will not be sold for less than a predetermined minimum amount. If the bidding does not reach the minimum bid, the seller may choose not to sell the item at that time, and the specific lot might be withdrawn from the auction.

Is the deposit you pay at registration refundable? 

Yes - when attending an auction, you are required to pay a registration deposit. This is refunded if you do not purchase anything, or it can be used as part of the payment due on successful bids. A 10% deposit is usually required when registering. 

What is the Buyer's commission? 

The Buyer’s Commission is the percentage added to the hammer price that must be paid by the individual with the winning bid. This commission is charged by the auctioneer as remuneration and can range anywhere between 6% and 12%, depending on the type of auction. 

What happens if you win at an auction and can’t pay?

Winning an auction and then being unable to pay can have serious consequences. Typically, winning an auction creates a binding contract, and failing to pay can result in a breach of contract. Depending on the auction type and terms, you might lose any deposit you've paid, face legal action to recover the owed funds and damage your reputation as a buyer. Auction houses or online platforms could ban you from future participation, and you could be responsible for additional costs associated with relisting. It's crucial to thoroughly understand the terms of the auction and only bid if you are fully prepared to meet your payment obligations.

If I win a bid, when is payment due? 

The timeframe is determined by the auction house and is either payable immediately (on the day) or within 48 hours. However, this will be stipulated in the terms and conditions of the auction, which is provided prior to the event. 

Do you need FICA documentation?

Potential buyers looking to bid at auctions must be compliant in terms of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (FICA). Documents that are required upon registration include: 

• ID Document and Proof of Residence (no older than three months) 
• Representatives of a company are required to have a proxy letter & proxy’s ID document.

Have we answered all your questions? If you have any more or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our team—we’re here to help!