AUCTION ROOMS
Durrants began conducting auction sales in 1853 and since that time we have continued to undertake sales and valuations throughout Norfolk and Suffolk.
From our Auction Rooms in Beccles we conduct monthly auctions of antiques and fine art, with periodic specialist sales attracting buyers from across the world.
Our team of valuers and auctioneers provide advice on the sale of antiques and collectables as well as preparing valuations for inheritance tax, capital gains tax, insurance and family division. With professional staff, magnificent auction rooms and our own removal vehicles we are able to offer a comprehensive and cost-effective service to executors, solicitors and private clients.
Our Services
Valuation
- On-site appraisals.
- Verbal advice or full written reports.
- Professional and confidential service.
- Specialist Valuers for furniture, ceramics, pictures, silver, jewellery, clocks and watches, books, militaria, toys and dolls.
Collection and clearance
We are able to undertake:
- Whole or partial house clearances.
- Collection and storage prior to auction.
- Disposal of low value or unsaleable items.
The Auction
With two auction rooms, cafe and reception area, our facilities at The Old School House, Peddars Lane, Beccles offer a superb experience for the buyer or seller alike.
- Periodic specialist sales.
- Antique and Fine Art sales every month.
- Sales advertised regionally, nationally and worldwide on the internet.
- Computerised reconciliation for vendors providing clarity and detailed analysis.
- RICS audited accounts.
Advice for sellers
The closing date for entries into the Fine Art and Specialist Sales is two weeks prior to the sale.
Should an item fail to reach the reserve price, fixed by the vendor, it will be re-offered the following month and subsequent months with the reserve reducing by 25% each month until the item is sold, unless instructions to the contrary are received from the vendors.
Unfortunately we are not able to accept all entries, and reserve the right to turn away unsaleable items. Our commission rate is 12.5% (plus VAT on premium) on the first £1000 and 5% (plus VAT on premium) thereafter, together with a £2 + VAT lotting fee on each lot entered into each sale. Please contact us directly to discuss your specific requirements.
Advice to purchasers
All purchasers are required to register for a bidding number; this makes the buying process much easier and quicker. The number is permanent and valid for future auction room sales. We operate a commission bidding system and a telephone bidding system with five phone lines. This enables buyers who are not able to attend the auction in person to bid for the lots that they are interested in. If you wish to book a telephone line to bid for a particular lot then it is advisable to contact the Auction Rooms well in advance of the sale day. Written commission bids can be accepted up to 9am. on the day of the auction. The auctioneer will bid on your behalf up to the maximum bid that has been left. If the bidding in the rooms stops before the maximum bid that has been left, then the auctioneer will only bid once more on your behalf. To leave a commission bid, either contact us by e-mail or in person at the auction rooms. Our buyer's premium is 12.5% (plus VAT on premium) which is added to the hammer price on all lots.
Arrangements for payment
We are able to accept many payment methods including:
- Cash up to a maximum of £8,000 (due to our money laundering policies).
- Credit cards and debit cards (credit card payments are subject to a 2% surcharge).
- Cheques. For larger payments we reserve the right to clear the cheque before the lots can be collected.
- Online bank transfers can be arranged.
Payment for Purchases
We require settlement of all purchases on the day of sale or if purchased by remote bidding, immediately upon advice of your purchase. Once satisfactory settlement has been received, removal of the items can then be arranged.
Postage / Shipping
We are unable to post items to successful buyers. We are pleased to offer successful bidders expert packaging and shipping with Mailboxes Etc. Upon notification of your purchases please settle the account with our auction office then contact Mailboxes Etc to arrange collection. For further information please contact Mailboxes Etc. via their website or on 01206 368881.
Storage is charged for lots which are not removed from the saleroom immediately after a sale.
Please see our full Terms and Conditions for more information.
