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Dorshorst Auctions, established 1990

Bid better

Maximize your auction success

Read the catalog, set a limit, and understand the costs before you bid. These four habits make online auctions easier to follow.

The essentials

Four habits that separate good bidders

  1. 01

    Set your total budget

    Decide what you are comfortable spending per lot. Allow for the 4% credit card transaction fee, applicable Wisconsin sales tax, and shipping if needed. There is no buyer's premium. Check the terms of each auction before registering.

  2. 02

    Inspect before bidding

    Read the title and description and look through every photo. Items sell as is, where is. Call Marv to arrange a preview if condition, size, or completeness matters to your decision. Past catalogs show the types of items we handle; available results are on HiBid.

  3. 03

    Use a maximum bid

    Enter the most you are willing to bid and HiBid bids on your behalf using the auction's set increments. Your maximum is a bid limit, not a spending target. Include fees and shipping in your overall budget, and review your bid carefully before confirming it.

  4. 04

    Understand the soft close

    A bid in the final minute extends that lot by another minute. A last-second bid does not guarantee a win. If you cannot watch the close, set your maximum in advance. Winning bidders receive an invoice; check the posted pickup window or arrange eligible shipping.

Worth knowing

How our sales actually run

Soft close
A bid in the last minute extends that lot by another minute. You cannot win by sniping, so bid what the item is worth to you.
No buyer's premium
We do not add a buyer's premium. Card fees, applicable sales tax, and shipping are separate costs.
No reserve
Lots sell to the highest bidder. There is no hidden floor you have to clear first.
Costs to expect
A 4% credit card transaction fee, 5.5% wisconsin sales tax where applicable, and shipping if you are not collecting in person.

Ready to put it into practice?

Browse the current catalog, then register on HiBid to place your bids. Previews are available by appointment.

Browse the current catalogRegister on HiBid

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