SELLING AT AUCTION
Gardner Galleries works closely with estate executors and family members to provide the highest level of professional service in the dispersal of estate chattels, from a single item to an entire household. Gardner's also accept items from downsizing and family division. With two locations, four licensed auctioneers and a track record of thousands of successful auctions we are the prefered choice for almost all area trust companies and estate solicitors.
Gardner's strive to obtain the best results for consignors, uniquely offering three distinct auction formats to expose items for sale to the largest and most appropriate audience. FIne art and antiques are sold at internationally promoted semi-annual catalogue sales at the York Street Galleries, general merchandise in the weekly Gardner's East sales and where appropriate online auctions. Recent online sales have featured jewellery, books, art, watches, toys, figurines, model trains, Fiesta Ware, coins, stamps, oriental rugs and other collections.
Gardner Galleries are pleased that a recent sale showcased how the firm makes every effort to achieve results for clients. Grant Gardner found a book hidden in the back of closet for an estate with no immediate family, and after weeks of research realized that the market for the book was perhaps two to five prospective buyers in Australia. By skillful marketing and promotion he sold the book for $1,800,000.00 plus premium, instead of a few hundred dollars if only promoted locally.
Acceptance of items and pre-sale estimates
Items are accepted on a daily basis for inclusion in upcoming auctions at both locations.
Free pre-sale estimates are provided at Gardner Galleries, 186 York Street. Photographs of large items are acceptable for the purpose of pre-sale estimates. Free visits to the home can be arranged for a general overview and estimate of total value. Prospective consignors are encouraged to have a Gardner's representative give an idea of value before sendng items to auction, as our knowledge of the auction market can provide insight on what results may be expected. Our policy is that we will not accept any items after they have been offered for sale previously, such as from a house tag sale. Gardner's knowledge of value, as with any fine art and estate auction firm, is a primary asset not to be wasted on leftovers from amateur sellers.
If a written appraisal is required, the fee is based on a competitve hourly rate, which may be refunded if the items are consigned for auction. Appraisals are conducted for probate, insurance and fair market value by accredited personal property appraisers. Separation appraisals may be accepted on a limited basis with fee surcharge.
Both locations are open Monday to Friday 8:30am-4:00pm for receiving consignments. Gardner's East unloading area is off Rectory Street, for Gardner Galleries proceed up the lane on the east side of the building to rear loading dock.
As part of our goal to provide exceptional customer service throughout the entire auction process, we can provide our own staff and moving van for shipment of items.
Commission rates
Commission rates include everything except cartage. Unlike many other auction houses there is no extra charge for photography, insurance, internet listing, cataloguing, advertising, etc. The standard selling commission rates are as follows (per total consignment, not per item). Special circumstances, including where the overall quality is above average may result in a lower quoted rate; where the overall quality is very low may result in a higher rate or the consignment refused.
Under $500...30%
Thereafter.....25%
Payment Payment is usually processed within 10 days after weekly auctions, 14 to 28 days following multi-session catalogue auctions. Consignors receive a computerized printout of the results with an itemized list of every lot sold. Reserves are only accepted if less than our pre-sale low estimate. If the item(s) does not reach the reserve, a cataloguing charge is applied.
The Gardner Galleries is the only auction firm in the London metropolitan area dealing exclusively with art, antiques and estate furnishings, recently handling sales for TD Canada Trust, Scotia Trust, BMO Trust, Public Guardian & Trustee, Oak Trust, Royal Trust and many others.
