Q . Can I get my item(s) valued by sending you a picture on email?

A . Yes, sending an email or filling our contact form in is the best way to get a preliminary estimate of the worth of something you want to sell. We cannot give a more definitive value until we see the actual piece at our salerooms however.

Q . It is difficult for me to get to you. Can you arrange a home visit?

A . Yes, in certain circumstances, home visits by our valuers can be arranged. Contact us for more details

Q . How can I get my item for sale to you?

A . Please telephone us if you wish to bring the items yourself. We will advise you about the best times to come. Alternatively we operate a collection service via contractors who charge £45.00 per hour for a van with 2 men. They have many years experience of moving antiques and other items and we have consistently excellent feedback from customers about their service.

Q . Are there any advance charges to pay before my auction?

A . No, nothing at all.

Q . Can I put a reserve price on my item?

A . We are happy to provide advice on reserve price.

Q . What happens if my item doesn't sell because it doesn't reach the reserve price?

A . The only charge would be a fee of £4.20 + VAT per lot. We reserve the right to reduce the reserve by 25% but we prefer to discuss the unsold lot with you before re-entering it.

Q . How and when will I be paid after the auction?

A . Payment is made to all successful sellers via bank transfer two weeks  after their item(s) sell at auction. If you are selling a number of items in different salesrooms, we can pay in full at the end or arrange a part payment as the auctions proceed.

Q . I've never bought from an auction before. What do I need to do in order to bid?

A . We would recommend that you attend the view day when you can look at all the items on display. A member of our team will always be on hand to give you advice if you spot something that you might like to bid on. All that you then need to do is register with us to obtain a bidding card. When you are bidding for a lot please ensure that you are in the auctioneer's line of sight and that you bid clearly. If you are successful the auctioneer will ask for your bidding number.

Q . I have seen something in the auction which I would love to buy but I am busy and can't attend the sale. Can I still somehow bid on the item?

A . Yes. You can leave an absentee bid on this website by creating an account, then registering for the auction and placing a maximum sum instructing us to bid on your behalf. Alternatively you can call us on 0115 9869128. We will endeavour to buy the item for you as cheaply as possible allowing for other bidders and any reserve price. 

You can also bid live using our AJ Live webcast auction as all of our sales are broadcast live online. Find out more here.

Q . Do I pay VAT on my purchases?

A . VAT is only payable on those lots which have an asterisk against the lot number in the catalogues. It is very rare for VAT to be charged on the hammer in Auction Rooms 1-4 and if so it will clearly marked on the lot itself. You can also see the fees on the lot page under the "Fees" section

Q . Is it possible to accidentally bid?

A . In our experience - no, despite the old jokes about people purchasing items when they just wanted to scratch their nose. Nevertheless if you see a friend at the other side of the saleroom, it's best not to wave to them while a sale is on!

Q . When do I have to collect the item(s) I've purchased?

A . By 2pm on the day of sale. You can also collect until 1pm on Tuesdays, except in Saleroom 3 (Modern Interiors) where where items must be collected by 5pm on Mondays.

Q . Can I change my mind after I have bought an item?

A . It is vital for you to realise that you are entering into a legally binding contract at the fall of the hammer. Please ensure that you have fully inspected the item and that it fits into your home. We want you to be entirely satisfied with your purchase.

Q . Is there anything to pay on top of the hammer price?

A . Yes, there is a buyer's premium of 25% (incl. VAT)

Q . Is parking free at the salerooms?

A . Yes on viewing days, but it is £2 per car on Saturdays. We usually have ample space at our site.

Q . How do I pay for items I've purchased?

A . You can pay online as soon as we have emailed your invoice, You can also can pay in person here at the office, 10 minutes after you have bought your item. We accept debit and credit cards and, of course, cash.