What is the Difference Between a Live Auction, a Simulcast Auction, and a Timed Auction?
If you're considering selling or bidding through an auction, you may come across terms like live auction, simulcast auction, and timed auction. Each of these formats offers a unique experience, and understanding the differences can help you decide which one fits your needs best—whether you’re a buyer or a seller.
At Denotter Auctions, we work with all three types of auctions to give our clients flexible and effective options. Here’s a breakdown of what each format involves:
Live Auction
A live auction is the traditional auction format that most people imagine. Bidders gather in person at a specific location, and an auctioneer calls out the items and accepts bids in real-time. This format creates an exciting, fast-paced environment where buyers can physically inspect items before bidding.
Soft Close or Extended Bidding:
Live auctions always allow extended bidding. This is where the auctioneer always gives a little time after someone has bid for the other bidder to bid again or for someone new to place a bid. This prevents last-second "sniping" and gives everyone a fair chance to place their best bid. The item sells when the auctioneer says “SOLD!”.
Benefits:
Helps sellers achieve higher prices due to competitive back-and-forth
Gives buyers time to react and avoids frustration from missed bids
Best for:
High-value or collectible items that benefit from physical inspection
Local audiences
Those who enjoy the energy of a live crowd
Pros:
Immediate results
Personal interaction and engagement
Opportunity to inspect items firsthand
Simulcast Auction
A simulcast auction blends the best of both worlds: it's a live auction that's also broadcast online in real-time. Online bidders can participate right alongside those attending in person, using their phones or computers to place bids as the auctioneer calls each item.
Soft Close or Extended Bidding:
Simulcast auctions also include extended bidding, as mentioned above. Both in person bidders and online bidders are given the opportunity to bid after someone else has bid. As mentioned above, this prevents sniping, making it more fair for bidders and maximizing sale prices for sellers. The item sells when the auctioneer says “SOLD!”.
Benefits:
Prevents last-second bid "sniping"
Encourages more active participation from online bidders
Increases transparency and fairness
Local bidders are encouraged to attend the auction to inspect the items
Best for:
Sellers who want to reach a broader audience
Buyers who can’t attend in person but still want the live bidding experience
Pros:
Wider bidder reach (local and remote)
Real-time bidding with a live auctioneer
Increased competition can drive up prices
Timed Auction
A timed auction is completely online and doesn’t involve a live auctioneer. Each item is posted with detailed descriptions and photos, and bidding is open for a set period of time. When the timer runs out, the highest bid wins.
Benefits:
Encourages bidders to stay engaged
Helps sellers get the best possible price
Best for:
Sellers with many items
Buyers who prefer a more relaxed, self-paced experience
Items where in-person viewing isn't necessary
Pros:
Convenience—bid anytime, anywhere
Lower pressure environment for bidders
Great for large or multi-day auctions
Choosing the Right Format
Still not sure which auction type is best for your situation? At Denotter Auctions, we’re happy to walk you through your options. Whether you're downsizing, settling an estate, or selling unique collectibles, we’ll help you select the auction format that works best for you and your items.
Contact Denotter Auctions
📞 Phone: 224-392-3101
📧 Email: mdenotter@denotterauctions.com
🌐 Website: denotterauctions.com
Let’s talk about how we can turn your items into top-dollar results—no matter the format.