For many years we have worked hard to develop a reputation of honesty and fairness, and our goal at Flomaton Antique Auction is to continue striving for that integrity. On this page we will try to clearly portray our terms, conditions and limitations that occur within operating an auction business and attempt to answer as many questions as possible.
Our business goal is to offer authentic antiques at auction with a special focus on 19th century American.
Descriptions. We attempt to make a consistent effort in cataloging and accurately describing the property to be sold. Our intention is to be as fair as possible in the catalog description, at the same time realizing it is virtually impossible to adequately describe an antique or collectible item that has been used and shows signs of wear. To aid in description of items offered, please check our website for many additional photos/close-ups. Since opinions can differ, particularly in reference to conditions, repairs and originality, we recommend you see the item in person. We reserve the right to provide verbal corrections and additional information at the time of sale.
Estimates. As an aid to prospective buyers we are adding to the catalog description what is, in our opinion, an estimate of what the item will sell for. Our desire is to answer as many of your questions regarding the possible selling price of a particular item. Please realize the final price may fall outside either side of this estimate.
We have attempted to be as accurate as possible with measurements, however, they should be considered approximate. We urge you to make your own inspection.
Absentee Bids. We will accept Absentee/Phone bids as a convenience to clients who are not present at the auction. They need to be confirmed by the Thursday preceeding the sale date, due to bookkeeping processes. The office clerk will execute such bids competitively. It is entirely possible to buy items by absentee bid for less than your top bid price. Please note* Every effort is made to execute all bids, however, you must know that this is not a perfect system here, nor at any other auction house. In the event of error or omission/failure to execute absentee bids, Flomaton Antique Auction, Inc. will not be held liable. If you are a discerning, highly particular customer, it is advisable that you see the items in person. Concerning condition, absentee bids will not be executed on items found to be other than as described in the catalog. First bid received will take precedence in case of duplication.
Phone bidding may be arranged on items estimated over $500.00. With such arrangement, an office clerk will call you just prior to the lot being offered, so you may bid competitively in person over the phone. Due to limited phone lines, please set up as early as possible. As a precaution on desirable items you may want to consider leaving some kind of absentee bid in case of missed connections.
Reserve seating will be held until start of auction.
Bidding. All purchasers must register for a bidders number and provide satisfactory identification. The highest bid acknowledged by the auctioneer will be the purchaser. In case of disputed bids, the auctioneer is the sole determinant as to the successful bidder and at his discretion may re-offer/re-sale the article in dispute.
Our intention is to sell all lots advertised and offered for auction. Due to a situation of little or no interest in a particular lot the auctioneer may reject nominal bids-i.e.-failure to open for 25-30% of low estimate, and also bids of very nominal advances made with the purpose of disparaging an item. Such items passed by the auctioneer will not be re-offered until a later date.
Some items may carry a conservative reserve, which will fall below the catalog low estimate. Exact reserves cannot be divulged and will be enacted by the clerk, just as they would an absentee bid, until the reserve is met or exceeded.
Title. All items are sold as they stand at the point of sale. Title also passes when the hammer falls or �sold� is announced. It is then the responsibility of the buyer to make full payment. All goods sold will be tagged and can be claimed on presentation of paid invoices only. It is the buyers responsibility for removal, following sale of items. Please use our staff at loading dock/removal area. They will be available to help load your items at your discretion and risk. Any lots left for a time, will be well cared for, but are stored solely at the risk of the owner, damage and loss occurring after sale becomes that of the buyer. Packing, shipping and insurance arrangements can be made through third party agents.
Buyers Premium. There will be a 10% buyer�s premium added to the hammer price of each item sold in the auditorium, by proxy or by phone and is payable by the purchaser.
Tax. Alabama and local sales tax will be added to all sales, exempting persons with a current copy of your states tax exemption number on file with our office.
Payment Terms. All items to be paid for in American funds on the day of the auction. Absentee bids are to be paid upon successful purchase.
Delivery and Pickup. Buyers are responsible for prompt removal of goods. Several shippers are listed elsewhere on our website if you cannot remove bought lots yourself. Items left over 2 weeks begin accruing a weekly storage charge. Check with our office for rates.
By participating in any sale, you acknowledge that you're are bound by these terms and conditions.