1. Quick-start checklist
- Create an account & register for an auction with a valid credit card. Your card stays on file and is automatically charged for any lots you win.
- Browse the catalog. Every lot opens at $5.
- Place bids or set a "max bid." Enter the next bid or your highest bid; our system automatically raises your offer in $5 increments only when needed to keep you in the lead — and never beyond your chosen maximum.
- Track the soft-close timer and staggered closing order (see section 3).
- Pay & pick up on time. Pickup windows are fixed and posted on every sale.
2. Costs to you
| Cost | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening bid | Always $5 per lot |
| Bid increments | Minimum +$5 over the current bid |
| Buyer premium | $1 or 3% of the hammer price (whichever is higher), added at checkout |
| Local sales tax | Applied to the hammer price plus buyer premium, unless we have a valid Florida resale certificate on file |
| Tax-exempt buyers | Email us your Florida Form DR-13 resale certificate before you register for a sale to have tax removed automatically |
3. Soft close & staggered ending
- Staggered closing: Lots close in catalog order, one every 20 seconds. This gives you time to watch several items without juggling multiple last-second bids.
- Soft-close timer: Each lot shows a countdown. If anyone bids during the final 5 minutes, we automatically reset the clock to 5 minutes. The lot only ends when a full 5 minutes passes with no new bids. This prevents "sniping" and keeps the finish fair for everyone.
4. Pickup rules
- Be available for the stated pickup window — no exceptions.
- Bring help & packing supplies. Staff cannot load items for you.
- Take everything in your lot. Leaving items behind may incur disposal fees and can lead to a ban.
5. Item condition
- All items sell "AS-IS, WHERE-IS."
- Sellers must provide truthful descriptions and photograph all known damage.
- Bidders should read descriptions and examine photos closely before bidding, and ask questions before the auction closes.
6. Being a good neighbor
We want The After Auction to feel like a friendly neighborhood swap. A few simple courtesies keep it fun for everyone:
- Keep your payment info current. We'll automatically charge your card when you win — no extra steps for you.
- Show up during the stated pickup window. Sellers are often on tight schedules, so a timely pickup helps everything run smoothly.
- Take everything in your lot and follow pickup instructions.