How To Bid at a Live Doll Auction

Here's How:

1. Get the auction catalog ahead of time and study it. Mark any dolls that you are interested in seeing at the auction preview.
2. Dress comfortably,and eat something first--you don't want to make a foolish bid due to lightheadedness!  Also, certain auctions go on for several hours and if you leave to get food, you may miss bidding on dolls that you are interested in.
3. Pack the items you'll need before you get to the auction--a small flashlight to check for bisque cracks and repairs, a pen, paper, a value book, personal identification, check book, and your seller's ID number if you are buying for a business.
4. Get to the auction early since it is easiest to see the dolls at the auction preview before the crowds arrive.  
5. Get a bidder number (you will need your personal identification) and note methods of payment accepted.
6. Save a seat before you look at the preview; popular auctions fill up fast, and you will want to be close to the front if you are bidding.
7. Check the dolls carefully at the preview--check for any defects, and check carefully dolls you thought you would like in the catalog, since many dolls will look quite different in person, and you may change your mind on which dolls to bid on. If you are seriously interested in a doll, ask for permission to handle it at the preview for an in-depth inspection.
8. Don't bid on dolls you don't examine in the preview.
9. Set a budget
10. Pay attention!
11. Don't forget the buyer's premium--many auctions add a buyer's premium to the final bid price of 10 to 15%.
12. Raise your paddle to bid; once you have been acknowledged, further bids on an item can be by a nod of the head, etc. 
13. Check the dolls carefully as soon as you receive them--usually, you must return dolls for undisclosed defects or other problems immediately after the close of the auction.

Tips:

1. If you have traveled to the auction, make sure you have a way to get the dolls packed properly and home with you.  Bring a trunk for planes, and lots of bubble wrap if you fly, or have the dolls shipped if possible.
2. Remember that on planes personnel may now inspect your dolls out of your sight, and you can no longer lock your luggage.
3. If you are new to auctions, it might pay to go to one or two auctions before you start bidding at the auctions.

What You Need:

• pen
• small flashlight
• auction catalog
• paper
• value book
• personal ID
• payment method