By Rob Best

If you're about to attend your first auction, as a potential buyer, then it might be a bit early to take on the tricks and tactics laid out here.

Indeed, at your first auction, it's worth making yourself known to the auctioneer beforehand, telling him the lots your interested in, and then sitting in an aisle seat, or standing near the front so he'll easily spot you. You might even decide to wear a Hawaiian shirt, or something equally bright!

If you are going after a lot, get involved in the bidding early. This reminds the auctioneer to keep an eye on you throughout the bidding. If you come in at the last moment, there's a chance he'll miss your signal, and you'll miss your bargain!

All this will help you on your first outing or two, and it will help the auctioneer, too. However, remember that the auctioneer is ultimately working for the vendor (to get the best possible price) and for the auction house (to get the best possible commission). You are definitely third in the pecking order!