This is the hardest endeavor I have ever done in my life.  I have been to college, basic training, and I served in Southeast Asia, got married and raised kids. BUT, opening a Brick and Mortar Auction has been a challenge.

Step Number one

Find a location, not as simple as it sounds.  You must conform to zoning, parking, fire protection, and seating capacity for 300 people with comfortable Heat/Air, a super sound system, and a refreshment center for the bidders.  Oh yeah, restroom facilities. Then the sellers must have a loading dock and a lounge for themselves with of course, restroom facilities. Security lighting as the Auctions are at night.

Step Number two

After you have been lucky with Step Number one, now you must lease the building, haggle over improvements and accomodations, then sign a lease.

Step Number three

Get a sales tax license from your Department of Revenue, also a Federal Tax ID number. Public liability insurance and workmen compensation insurance. Get an Auction House license from the State, Open a bank account with a trust account for the State, and an operating bank account for everyday expenditures. Post a bond with the State licensing agency. Secure an County license, Secure a City license.

Step Number four

Go borrow some more  money, you will need it. After that, hire a professional licensed Auctioneer and a trained ticket/writer clerk, Cashier and professional ring men or hawkers, whom assist the  Auctioneer.

After that, file an affidavit with your local law enforcement agency, certifying you will allow them to examine your books at any time, and any other item they feel is necessary to enforce the Law, regarding auctions.

I am skipping the rest of the steps, for this as far as I have gotten with my adventure. I still have to secure a couple of more licenses, and have signs made, buy seating, build a podium, buy desks, create a food court and get another Health inspection to sell food, contact and pay for the Fire Dept. to come out and certify that the property is safe, with Exit signs, seating capacity.  Of course, advertise and and and and

STICK WITH EBAY, IT IS SAFER, CHEAPER AND STRESS FREE