HOW TO BID
In person, online, on the phone or absentee, we make it easy to bid
on the lots you want, no matter where you may be.
Four Ways to Bid
Option One: Live Online Bidding
Can’t attend an auction in person? No problem. Our secure online bidding platform utilizes live simulcast software that enables you to bid on any lot in real time. You can register from your computer or download the app to your Android or iOS devices and register from there. Whether you prefer to bid through the Ahlers & Ogletree website, through the app on your mobile and tablet devices, or through LiveAuctioneers, Invaluable, or Bidsquare, you will have a seamless, enjoyable experience as you discover special items and collections.
Option Two: Telephone Bidding
In the event you are unable to attend an auction or you prefer anonymity, telephone bidding is an excellent alternative. Unlike absentee bidding, telephone bidding keeps you abreast of all bids and helps ensure your satisfaction with the outcome, and gives you control of your bidding.
To register for telephone bidding, just fill out and submit this form. Once submitted, an Ahlers & Ogletree representative will contact you to confirm your contact information and bids.
On the day of the auction, an A&O bidding specialist will call you approximately five lots before your item is scheduled for sale. They will explain the bidding process and bid on your behalf, at your full discretion. They will remain on the phone with you until the lot closes. If you are the winning bidder, you will be invoiced via email within 48-72 hours.
Option Three: Absentee Bidding
For some, absentee bidding is ideal. To place an absentee bid, simply bid the highest price you are willing to bid for an item (aside from buyer’s premium and applicable sales tax). The bid is then executed starting at the lowest possible increment and continues up to and including the dollar amount submitted in accordance with reserves and competitive bids. The bid clerk works to secure your winning bid as if you were in the house bidding, and they never jump directly to your high bid if there are no competitive bidders up to that level.
Registering for absentee bidding can be done by registering here, logging in, or filling out and emailing or faxing this PDF form.
Option four: In-Person Bidding
For some, it’s the feeling of soaking in the energy buzzing throughout the room. For others, it’s about the thrill of competing for that one-of-a-kind item that simply must be won. Whatever the reason, nothing compares to the excitement of bidding in person at a live auction. Always free and open to the public, our auctions typically last 6-8 hours. Attendees have no commitment to bid and are welcome to come for one lot or stay for the entire auction. As well, there is ample seating and standing room on the auction floor and the surrounding rooms.
At the opening of each lot, the auctioneer will announce the lot number and starting bid. To place a bid, simply raise your paddle and await acknowledgement from the auctioneer. And don’t worry, we will not consider scratching your nose or running your fingers through your hair as a bid. After the auctioneer issues Fair Warning and Last Call, the lot will close, and the winning bidder and hammer price will be announced.
To bid in person at any of our auctions, please register at our showroom at 700 Miami Circle, Atlanta, GA 30324. Please remember to bring your state-issued photo identification, a valid credit card, and any applicable tax documentation.