Contact Your All-In-One Auction Service Experts
Berti Auction Service is a multi-generational auctioneering business serving Franklin County and surrounding counties in Missouri, including Crawford, Gasconade, and Washington, Warren, St. Louis, Jefferson, and more. Our services include farm, estate, home, real estate, antique, and business liquidation. We also provide appraisals.
To learn more about the auction process and whether we’re the right fit for your needs, contact us.
Col. Robby Berti, Licensed Auctioneer
Office: 573 468 5511
Cell: 314 402 0781
Email: bertiauctionservice@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re thinking about having an auction, we’re here to help. We’ve rounded up some of our most frequently asked questions, but feel free to reach out if you have other questions.
How much does it cost to have an auction?
Each of our auctions is unique, meaning there’s no one-price-fits-all and our pricing model reflects that. We have a percentage-based fee scale that is determined by the type of auction you’re having. We’re always happy to have a conversation to help you determine if an auction could be the right option for your property.
What is your commission rate?
The commission depends on the type of auction, which is determined when the auctioneer meets with you to discuss the auction.
Do you have buyer’s premiums?
We do not charge a buyer’s premium. This is one of the benefits of hosting on-site auctions, as these fees are typically added to help cover the costs of running an auction house.
How long does it take to set up and host an auction?
There are a lot of boxes to check before a successful auction can take place, from creating the listing to taking photos, developing a sale bill, and advertising. It generally takes a minimum of four weeks to prepare; however, if you have a specific and fixed date in mind, please reach out at least six months in advance so we can plan ahead.
What can I sell at my auction?
Auctions typically have a variety of items, including:
- Antiques and Collectibles
- Real Estate
- Vehicles
- Farm Equipment
- Livestock
- Jewelry
- Tools
- Kitchen Appliances
- Household Items
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Lawn Equipment
- Artwork
- Books
Do you set up for the auction?
We can be as involved as you’d like in your auction, from providing trailers, tables, and coordinating advertising to setting up and conducting the auction.
What if my stuff doesn’t sell or if it doesn’t sell for what I had hoped?
One of the benefits of hosting an auction is all of the items up for auction are sold. If you have a specific item or items that you’re concerned about bringing an acceptable amount, you can set a reserve, or the lowest amount you’re willing to accept for an item. This price can be either public or private, and our auctioneers can help you determine which route is best for the items you have in mind.
Do you take consignments?
No, we do not take consignments or host consignment auctions. We only hold auctions on-site.
Do you auction real estate?
Yes, Berti Auction Service regularly auctions real estate in addition to personal property.
Do people typically offer lunch at their auction?
Oftentimes, people invite a church, 4-H Club, Lion’s Club, or other group to sell lunch, with the group to get the proceeds from the sale.
What can you appraise, and can you appraise my home?
We are certified personal property appraisers. We do not appraise real estate.
Are you insured/licensed?
Yes, we’re both insured and licensed.
After the auction, how long does it take to receive payment?
Berti Auction Service settles up with you the day you hold your auction. We have worked to ensure everything is taken care of the same day, so there’s no waiting for turning over the net proceeds.
What geographic area do you serve?
We typically serve Franklin, Crawford, Washington, and Gasconade counties in Missouri. We can travel and have served customers throughout the state. Contact us to discuss your needs.
Why are auctioneers called colonels?
Ok, ok. This one isn’t actually asked that often, but it is a fun fact. The title is a nod to the Civil War era, when only military colonels could auction spoils of a war. Auctioneers still take the honorary title, despite that much more than war spoils are auctioned today.