With over 20 years in the industry, I can safely say that no two days are the same in the life of an Auctioneer. It is what keeps my work fresh and varied but I can guarantee most days will throw up a surprise somewhere along the line.
These surprises can come in the form of the good and the bad. An example of an unwanted surprise would be a recent experience down in Cornwall. Arriving to conduct a day of viewings at a beautiful residence with extensive gardens and stunning views, I was more than disappointed to find that the property had been used as a party venue by trespassers the night before and that there wasn’t a room untouched by the vandals in question.
Most walls covered with graffiti, litter in every room and smashed windows, the property had sadly been vandalised to the extreme. With viewers booked to arrive within minutes and a day of viewings planned, quick communication had to be relayed to minimise disruption and manage expectations of my clients that day and of course to inform the owners of the misfortune.
Whilst the mess will certainly create more work for the new owners, I can report that the beauty of the property still shone through, and it sold on its auction day.
Working with people will always bring with it surprises. I am often surprised at the fall of the virtual gavel when I think I have gauged correctly who will bid on a property following meetings and showing those clients around the Lot, only to find the Lot has been purchased by an unexpected bidder.
Some of the more rewarding times with my private clients, is the ‘After’ moment, think Homes under the Hammer here. Being invited back to client’s homes following the auction process and after the period of time where the buyer has worked hard to modernise and update a property, or perhaps following a build where a plot of land has been purchased. Seeing the process through from first viewing to the fall of the virtual gavel, then beyond to the development of the property or land often brings the best surprises.
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