Who pays what: common auction fee models
11 Mar 2026
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Admin
Buyer-funded models
A premium on the hammer price can replace large upfront seller costs. Buyers factor it into their ceiling; sellers like predictable net proceeds.
Seller-funded models
Catalogue photography, legal pack assembly, and room hire might be invoiced to the vendor whether or not the lot sells. Compare quotes like-for-like.
Transparency
Fee sheets change between auctioneers. Line up three estimates if you are selling, and read the buyer’s fee note in the catalogue if you are bidding.