Apollo 11 Lunar Module Timeline Book to Go On Auction

Posted May 9, 2019

On July 20, 1969 Neil Armstrong and Edwin Aldrin became the first humans to land on the moon. The journey to space was a long road which is rooted in tensions between America and the Soviet Union called the Cold War. On October 4, 1957 the Soviets launched Sputnik, an intercontinental ballistic missile and the world’s first artificial satellite to be place into the Earth’s orbit. This furthered tensions between the Soviet Union and America. After the launch of Sputnik the U.S launched the Explorer I. Despite American efforts to lead the way in space exploration, the Soviet Union appeared to be one step ahead. The Soviets launched the first man into space in 1961. That same year president John F. Kennedy announced The Apollo 11 mission, which ultimately won the Space Race when Neil Armstrong walked on the moon.

The moon landing is a very important part of both world history and American history. This iconic mission sparked the beginning of a complete change in the way we view space.

Apollo 11 Lunar Module Timeline Book to Go On Auction

It has been 50 years since the very first man walked on the moon. Since that that time there have only been 11 other people to walk on the moon.

Now, half a century later, the historic Apollo 11 Lunar Module Timeline Book is set to go on auction. This book contains details of the complete Eagle voyage from inspection, undocking, lunar surface descent and ascent. It is also rumored to contain traces of lunar dust within the pages. The Apollo 11 Lunar Module Timeline Book will be on view at Christie’s in New York until May 15. It is set to go on auction July 18^th.

Stay up-to-date on current auction details with Smith Co. Auction & Realty. For over 30 years Smith & Co. Auction Realty has been committed to providing exceptional service to exceed your auction needs. Be sure to check our bl o g for news regarding upcoming auctions and visit our Auction page to start bidding!

The Gun That Killed Vincent Van Gogh Is Up For Auction

Posted April 17, 2019

Most famous for The Starry Night Vincent Van Gogh became a very influential figure in Western art. Although he was a very accomplished artist, he did not gain notoriety until his death in 1890. Van Gogh suffered from mental illness and died due to gunshot wounds from a 7mm pocket revolver.

In 1888, after a mental breakdown, Van Gogh mutilated himself by cutting off his own ear. After cutting off his ear things began to spiral out of control, and he was admitted to a mental institution. It was during his time in the mental institution where he created Starry Night and a number of other notable paintings.

Issues Surrounding His Death

There are some conflicting elements surrounding Van Gogh’s death which have led historians to question whether he committed suicide or was murdered. Some historians believe he did not commit suicide but, was shot by a group of teenage bullies. Van Gogh as shot in the midsection which isn’t typically a place that someone would shoot themselves. Van Gogh also had a letter in his pocket, at the time of his death, which was addressed to his brother. The letter was not a suicide note but a casual letter to send to a sibling.

This revolver was discovered in the 1960s in the northern French village of Auvers-sur-Oise, the same place he was shot. It is believed to be the gun that killed Van Gogh because it is the same caliber as the bullet that was retrieved from his body.

Auction Details

The gun is set to be put up for auction, by Paris auction house AuctionArt, this coming June 19th.

The revolver is projected to be auctioned at around 67,000 dollars.

For more information on upcoming auctions check the Smith & Co. Auction & Realty blog.

George Michael’s Art Collection Hit the Auction Block for Charity

Posted March 18, 2019

Art exists in many forms, and the colliding world of music and visual art creates something truly magical.

No one understood this quite like legendary singer George Michael, who spent much of his life supporting charities and talented up-and-coming visual artists.

The world may have lost the legendary George Michael back in 2016, but the singing sensation’s philanthropic work continues into this year with a special auction that featured works from his private art collection.

The auction raised $15 million

Auction house Christie’s had over 200 pieces from the private collection of the British singing phenomenon in an auction this month. With a dedication to supporting upcoming visual artists, Michael’s collection included works from artists that created the Young British Art (YBA) movement, such as Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, Sarah Lucas, Michael Craig-Martin, and Marc Quinn.

With his collection, Michael supported young and emerging artistic talent, and this auction was meant to continue this work with the sale of these iconic creations.

Standout pieces from the collection

Key pieces in the auction included Tracey Emin’s “Drunk to the Bottom of My Soul,” a large applique blanket featuring poetry. Another sought-after piece was Damien Hirst’s “The Incomplete Truth” featuring formaldehyde-suspended animals and organs.

The proceeds from this auction will go towards continuing George Michael’s philanthropic work.

Check back on the Smith & Co. Auction & Realty blog for more auction updates and news! And when you’re ready to start bidding closer to home, we have plenty of upcoming auctions to try your hand at. Give us a call at 580-254-3975 to learn more!

Upcoming Real Estate Auction: High-End Executive Home in Woodward, Oklahoma for Sale

Posted January 28, 2019

Are you currently on the hunt for a high-end executive home? You may be sorting through a plethora of real estate listings, but if you’re ready to buy, perhaps a real estate auction is better suited for your search.

At Smith & Co. Auction & Realty Inc. we have a multi-parcel real estate auction coming up soon that might peak your interest!

A high-end luxury home in Woodward, OK is hitting the auction block on February 20, 2019.

Your long days of searching will be left in the past once you see this elite executive home.

Learn more about the executive home and all its features below! Further auction details and a photo gallery of the home are available on our website.

Feel free to look around and call our team at 580-254-3975 with any questions you may have and we’ll see you on February 20th!

Features of the executive home for sale

Before you bid and then buy, here are the essentials to know about this executive home up for auction!

This home was custom-built in 2008 on 4.83+ acres of land. The home offers a spacious living room and the kitchen has sleek granite counter tops, commercial appliances, a breakfast bar and more.

Now let us paint you a picture: you walk through the front door, the entryway greeting you with a wet bar with built-in cabinets made of solid wood.

You immediately feel relaxed and at home ready to head to the large master bedroom suite with a walk-in shower, designer bathtub, and several home accessories that do not disappoint.

From here, you’re able to walk through atrium doors to your own personal outdoor oasis to relax out on your covered patio.

Within the lower level of the home, you’ll find a large area housing another wet bar, a bathroom, and a traditional safe room.

The upper level features two bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a half bath.

For work, you’ll find a beautiful home office, but for play, you can take advantage of the theater room, presenting you with your feature presentation and comfortable theater seating for 12.

Would you believe us if we said there’s more?

Extra executive home amenities

Within the three levels of this luxury home, there are plenty of amenities to indulge in.

Enjoy looking out over your property from an atrium-like area located above the front entrance.

And with this property, you’ll never want to keep the party indoors.

There’s a wonderful outdoor entertaining area, from relaxing in the hot tub, to splashing around in the in-ground pool, heated to your liking and always sparkling.

There is also a fireside gazebo, perfect for entertaining guests or relaxing under the stars.

Storage space is no issue with this home; the 4,900 sq. ft. garage with multiple overhead doors and an upstairs should meet all of your storage requirements, housing your vehicles and large enough to accommodate a motor home.

An executive home in a prime location

One of the most important factors in choosing a high-end luxury home is the area where it’s located.

This high-end home is located just west of Woodward, OK offering potential buyers a spacious and beautiful area to live in. You can enjoy your privacy while also indulging in the suburban feel of Woodward County.

The opportunity to buy land around the property

This prime piece of real estate offers a beautiful executive home, yes, but there’s also the opportunity to purchase more land around the property.

There are technically 10 separate tracts available for purchase at this live on-site auction, each tract offering something different to our potential buyers. With Tract 1 housing the high-end luxury home, the multi-parcel method of sale will be implemented, giving the buyer a chance to take advantage of the additional 13 tracts available before anyone else.

Additional land for sale

Once Tract 1 and it’s accompanying purchases are completed in a combination sale, the multiple tracts of land available in this location will hit the auction block.

Additional tracts range in what they have to offer to a bidder.

You’ll have the chance to purchase an acre of land with an already built, beautiful brick home, or five acres of land with a 1,162 sq. ft. mobile home.

If by chance you’re more interested in purchasing land to build upon yourself, there are many tracts that offer various acres of land and great building sites. We have tracts that offer excellent hunting and cattle grazing, as well.

No matter your interest or use for the land, there is a tract that you won’t want to miss out on.

Learn more detailed information about the separate tracts in our auction description.

This is a live on-site auction with no opportunity for online bidding. However, you may register as a phone bidder if you cannot physically make it to the auction site. Register as a phone bidder today by calling our office at 580-254-3975 today!

Real Estate Auctions: What to Know

Posted March 26, 2018

It is becoming more popular for home buyers to look towards real estate auctions for their big purchase. However, before taking on the auction block, there are a few key things to understand in order to achieve success.

The different types of real estate auctions

Before attending an auction, it’s important to understand what type you’re attending. There are two types to take note of: a Sheriff’s auction and a private company auction. The process is similar, but different in location of event and who it’s held by.

Sheriff’s auction

This auction is a legal proceeding and is held by a government official in the county that the property is located. This type is utilized when lenders are foreclosing on a property, but are not the original owners of the home. A Sheriff’s auction is usually announced to the public in the “public notice” section of your local newspaper and is held on the courthouse steps or within the lobby area.

Private company auctions

This type of auction is held by a private company. These events usually offer more information about the property for sale prior to the auction. Companies will normally provide photos on their website and also encourage potential buyers to take a walk-through of the property. The rules of each auction vary based on the company, so be sure to learn the terms and conditions in advance!

These real estate auctions are announced through the company’s website that is holding them, which allows enough time to ask questions and schedule a walk-through inspection.

Practice due diligence

It would be beneficial to learn as much as you can about the real estate before you attend the auction. If you’re allowed to, take advantage of the opportunity to inspect the property beforehand. Additionally, have an attorney conduct a title search and identify any liens that exist so that you can ensure that there are no other existing owners of the property or undocumented costs that could become your responsibility.

Know your financial capabilities

Before attending a real estate auction, it’s vital to decide on the highest price you are willing to pay for the property. Most county foreclosures require a deposit of 5-10% of the final bid. Other private company auctions will ask for the full amount as soon as the auction concludes. As mentioned early, learn the rules of the auction you’re attending or don’t risk the bid!

Each of our realtors at Smith & Co. are native to Northwest Oklahoma and are homeowners themselves, making them great assets to help in your real estate search! Call us at 580-254-3975 today to learn more about our various real estate listings and feel free to explore all of our upcoming land and real estate auctions here!

Bidder’s Choice: What Does it Mean?

Posted February 26, 2018

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just a beginner, everyone can agree that the extensive vocabulary you hear at an auction can be a little overwhelming. Between the statement, the hammer and the rhythmic chant, there’s a lot to take in, but it’s “bidder’s choice” that quite possibly could be the most essential term you should know.

Bidder’s choice defined

According to the National Auctioneers Association, bidder’s choice is the method of sale whereby the highest bidder earns the right to choose an asset or assets from a group of similar items. After the highest bidder has made their selection, a new round of bidding begins with the highest bidder of that round choosing their asset or assets. This process goes on until all assets are sold.

So what does bidder’s choice really mean?

Bidder’s choice is a grouping strategy that both benefit the auctioneer and the buyers. Let’s take, for example, a grouping of power tools. Depending on the value of those separate items, the auctioneer may start the first round with one tool that’s worth more, or they may leave the parameters open and say any tool on the floor is available for buying.

The bidder with the highest unchallenged bid has the right to choose as many tools at that price as they wish. After they’ve made their selection, another round of bidding commences with the same rules applied. This process continues until only a few items are left or the bids are getting very low. Towards the end, the auctioneer may choose to group the rest of the tools together.

What’s the point of bidder’s choice?

This complex process gives buyers the chance to claim specific assets they were set out to buy, as well as give other buyers a second chance to bid on the other items during the later rounds. This is a fair way to give auction goers a good deal as well as some healthy competition. Also, auctioning these items separately is more profitable for the auctioneer than selling the items as a whole, usually losing them money in the end.

Smith & Co. Auction & Realty holds 60-80 live auctions a year for you to test your bidder’s choice at and get exactly what you’re looking for. Be sure to check out our list of upcoming auctions and best of luck!

How to Possibly Get a Bargain at an Auction

Posted January 24, 2018

If you love shopping for the best deals, then you’re sure to enjoy attending an auction! There are all kinds of great deals to be had, from large properties to small trinkets. So what can you do to find the best bargains?

Attend an auction preview

Auction previews give you an opportunity to take a close like at the items ahead of the auction. Since items purchased at auctions are rarely covered by any warranty, it’s your job to make sure the purchase is worth your while. During a preview you can closely inspect the items, so make sure you test as many features as possible. Consider taking photos of the items as well so you can make sure they are in the same condition on the day of the auction.

Do your research

Make sure you know the market value of the item to avoid overbidding. A simple Internet search will provide information about product value, devaluation, repair costs, and the current value that will help you decide what to bid.

Know your budget

It’s easy to get lost in the moment during an auction, and once you make a bid you can’t back out. Set your budget ahead of time and stick to it to avoid getting stuck with an item you really can’t afford. Also be sure to know what methods of payment are accepted so you come prepared.

Whether you are searching for a bargain at a land auction or qualified potential buyers for your home, the experts at Smith & Co. Auction & Realty will make sure that you are in the best position possible to find your desired results. Contact us today for more information!

Common Auction Mistakes

Posted December 18, 2017

Advertising on social media

In this day and age, you may be tempted to post photos and information about your items on social media ahead of your auction. But this can put the security of your items at risk, as people will be better able to find out where they are located. This can be an especially sensitive issue if you are auctioning off farmland or equipment. And if you post the price, you may end up turning away potential buyers or cut into earning potential.

Special deals for friends and family

You may feel obligated to let friends and family have first pick on your items or even offer them a cheaper deal. But doing so could limit the buyers’ pool that may have attended the auction. And by selling the items for a cheap price, you may inadvertently devalue the rest of the assets.

Co-owner agreements

If you share ownership of the items, be sure to come to an agreement about how things will be handled. Decide who will be in charge of accepting bids and making other important decisions. Will it be a team? One person? Being clear about everyone’s responsibilities upfront will help you avoid potential conflicts that could hurt your chances of having a successful auction experience.

At Smith & Co. Auction & Realty, we know how to spot potential problems with auctions and we know how to avoid the mistakes that sometimes arise. Let us handle your next auction. We have valuable experience serving Northwest Oklahoma for over 20 years. Call us today at 580-254-3975 with any questions you may have!

Auctioneer Terms You’ll Want to Learn

Posted November 29, 2017

At auctions, you can expect auctioneers talking a mile a minute and buyers waving their paddles in the air. So how are people able to keep up enough to actually make a bid? Knowing common auctioneer terms can be the key to success.

Auction chant

Known as “the chant,” auctioneers’ fast-talking styles date back to the 1920s. The chant consists of three parts: the statement (“I’m bid ten dollars”), the suggestion (“Ten dollars, twenty dollars”), and the question (“Do I hear 30?”).

Filler words

Filler words are any words used between bids to keep the rhythm of the chant going. Each auctioneer uses words differently to create their own unique style. The use of filler words also gives buyers a brief moment to think about their bids.

Provenance

If you watch shows like Antiques Roadshow, you may be familiar with the term “provenance.” Provenance refers to the item’s ownership history, tracing back to its creation. A long and well documented provenance can increase the value of an object up for auction.

Hammer price

The hammer price is the final, winning bid. The word “hammer” is a reference to the bang of the auctioneer’s gravel or hammer that seals this final bid.

When you’re planning your next auction, contact us at Smith & Co. Auction & Realty, Inc. and let us help you make it a success! We’ve been in business for over 20 years selling everything from farm machinery to 3100-acre ranches, and we are Northwest Oklahoma’s choice for all of your land auctions and real estate needs.

All About Auction Chant

Posted November 8, 2017

Auctions can be exciting to attend, with the anticipation of who will be the highest bidder and the auctioneer talking a mile a minute. But have you ever wondered why they talk so fast? There’s more to it than you might think!

Tradition

Known as “the chant,” auctioneers’ fast-talking styles date back to the 1920s. The chant consists of filler words between bids to keep the rhythm going. Although the chant is done at a high-speed, clarity is also important. Every decade since, auctioneers have considered the chant to be the right way to make a bid call.

Quicker sales

Because of the rapid speed of the chant, items sell quicker. Speaking at a normal pace could cause the auction to go for twice as long while still selling the same amount of items. The fast pace doesn’t give buyers much time to think about their decision, which can result in more buys.

Entertainment

People are always fascinated by auctioneers’ ability to talk fast. Their quick speech naturally creates excitement and anticipation, which draws bigger crowds and more potential buyers. It’s also much different from the speech styles we’re used to hearing on a daily basis, making it even more interesting.

If you’re looking for an auction company with the best auctioneers around, contact us at Smith & Co. Auction & Realty, Inc.! We’ve been in business for over 20 years selling everything from farm machinery to 3100-acre ranches, and we are Northwest Oklahoma’s choice for all of your land auctions and real estate needs.