Buyer's and seller's premiums

Auctioneers charge buyers and sellers a percentage of the hammer price - known respectively as the buyer's premium and the seller's premium (the latter is also referred to as vendor's premium, vendor's commission or seller's commission). This fee in the UK is usually also subject to VAT.

Each auctioneer sets its own rates for these premiums. Check their terms and conditions for details.


Sotheby’s go for 20% top buyer’s premium rate

13 March 2000

SOTHEBY’S will raise their buyer’s premium on April 1, one day after Christie’s are due to do the same.

Christie's detail new commissions

21 February 2000

CHRISTIE'S had their best ever year in 1999, exceeding the peak of annual turnover achieved at the height of the last art boom.

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