Oliver EvansI’ll admit it—auctions used to intimidate me. The fast bidding, the extra fees, and the fear of paying way more than I planned can be a lot.
But once I started exploring auctions in Vancouver, I realised they can actually be a fun and smart way to score unique finds, from antiques to art to even property.
So if you’re just like me before and want to hop into the scene, our team has gathered some insights to point you toward the city’s most trusted auction houses. Think of this as your shortcut to bidding with confidence.
How much do auctions cost in Vancouver?
Auctions in Vancouver usually come with a buyer’s premium of around 15–25% added to the hammer price. Sellers often pay a commission of 6–10% of the final sale. There may be extra charges for registration, marketing, or processing, depending on the auction house.
1. Marvel Auctions Ltd
Address: 4080 Vanguard Rd
Phone: +1 604-273-6715
Business hours:
- Monday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Thursday: 12 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
When we checked out Marvel Auctions Ltd, we found them really fair. In auctions, there’s always that worry that if you put in a max bid, the house might just push it up to that number.
One customer shared how he left an absentee bid and actually won the item for less than his limit. It says a lot—Marvel’s not about sneaky tricks.
Their weekly Thursday auctions are also a big plus. Instead of waiting months for a big event, you can count on them to bring a wide mix of items every week.
We’re talking everything from electronics, furniture, appliances, and even musical instruments.
A lot of these items come from estate sales and business closures, so you can end up with some real finds at good prices.
However, we don’t think Marvel’s for everyone. If you’re after rare art or luxury collectables, you might not find what you’re looking for here. They focus more on practical, everyday items.
Really impressed with the integrity of the company
“I’m really impressed with the integrity of the company. I put in an absentee bid and successfully won the item below my maximum amount. I know of another auction company that will jump to the maximum on an absentee bid in order to maximise the commission they receive, despite the dishonesty of undermining the bidding process. Kudos to Marvel for their honesty and integrity.”
John P., Google review
Service with Marvel was quick, easy, efficient, professional and friendly
“Marvel took care of most of my late mum’s estate. Initially, I had no idea all her cherished collectables and antique furniture would be worth so little and so difficult to sell. No one wants your stuff, folks! Service with Marvel was quick, easy, efficient, professional and friendly. Highly recommend.”
Lisa, Google review
2. Federal Auction Service
Address: 4360 Agar Dr Suite 216
Phone: +1 604-276-0868
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Federal Auction Service (FAS) is a great option if you’re into jewellery or watches. They really put in the effort to make their whole process secure and professional.
Their International Standards Organisation (ISO) certification also adds a lot of credibility right away.
We find their live previews helpful. Before the auction starts, you can actually see and handle the jewellery and watches in person, so you can feel confident about what you’re bidding on.
They also get a lot of credit for variety and fair pricing. You’ll find loose gemstones, engagement rings, and even high-end Swiss watches.
Most of the customers we’ve spoken to were Rolex collectors, and they keep coming back to FAS. On top of that, they also provide appraisals and limited warranties.
For those who can’t make it to the auction in person, their app is your weapon. You can browse the full catalogue, mark items you’re interested in, track bids in real time, and watch the auction live.
We can’t deny they’re strong when it comes to jewellery and watches, but if you’re looking for a wider mix of products, this probably isn’t the auction for you.
Great place for people to connect for their auction needs
“Federal Auction Service is a great place for people to connect for their auction needs. Especially, Mr Durrani, He is very understanding and patient with me when I visited the business. Should reach out to the business when you are having doubts about what to do.”
Richard Linn, Google review
I would use them again and recommend them to sell your high-end items
“I placed some watches with Amir and his team, and they were great in their persistence in selling my items even though it took longer than anticipated, but they persevered, and everything got sold. Very much appreciated their professionalism. I would use them again and recommend them to sell your high-end items.”
Gord Geddes, Google review
3. Heffel Fine Art Auction House
Address: 2247 Granville St
Phone: +1 604-732-6505
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Since 1995, Heffel Fine Art Auction House has been breaking records by selling many of the most valuable Canadian paintings ever. If you’re serious about Canadian art, it’s hard to overlook them.
One of the things we found unique was how they combine traditional live auctions with online sales.
Their live auctions have that exciting atmosphere, while their website makes it easy to track current lots, see estimates, and follow bids. This transparency is really helpful for collectors who like to research and stay in control.
The team at Heffel also seems very approachable and professional. Many clients mention that they’re knowledgeable and never condescending.
They seem to put extra effort into personal service since they have specialists available to guide you through every step.
On the flip side, we’ve heard some issues with their online bidding system. Some buyers have reported that it doesn’t always work as expected.
Excellent service from all angles
“Excellent service from all angles. From receiving to the end of the auctions. Thibault Bennett was involved in every step. Always available, informative and very service-oriented. Having dealt with a few so-called top auction houses, I found Heffel to be not at all condescending and patronising. Definitely the premier auction house of Canada(if not the only one)right now. Would very highly recommend. Thanks, Thibault.”
Ferdi Ozkul, Google review
Highest quality art at commensurate prices
“Not sure about some of the other posters here. Auction houses the world over routinely charge 20%+ commissions. The Heffel brothers have done an amazing job with the Gallery over the years, turning it into the preeminent Canadian auction house for fine art. Highest quality art at commensurate prices.”
Stephanie Phillips, Google review
4. Direct Liquidation
Address: 2622 Nootka St
Phone: +1 604-294-2331
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Direct Liquidations is a very accessible platform for live online auctions. The auctions happen in real time online, and there’s always a preview a day before.
This way, you can check out items, see their condition, and plan your strategy. This makes the process much easier for newcomers to participate confidently.
For buyers, their site is really easy to use. Browsing items and placing bids is simple, and the automated bidding system is handy. You can set your max bid and let the system handle the rest.
The countdown timers also make it clear how much time is left. Some items even have a “Buy Now” option if you want to skip the auction and grab it instantly.
There’s a huge variety of items here too. They feature furniture, clothing, collectables, and even industrial equipment.
From a seller’s point of view, it’s a bit more complicated. A seller shared that Direct Liquidation set her items at a low starting price, and didn’t give her the chance to choose it herself. It’s a real drawback for those who want more control over their sales.
The whole experience was easy and excellent from start to finish
“I just finished buying in my second auction from Direct Liquidation – the whole experience was easy and excellent from start to finish. The auction site was easy to navigate, and the bidding process was super easy. I’m really happy with everything I ended up with and felt really well informed about each item before bidding. In the warehouse, I dealt with Kim, Audrey, Ozzie and Matt – everyone was super professional, friendly and helpful. If you’ve never done this before – don’t be afraid to try… I had no idea what I was doing at first, but they made it really easy. I’ll definitely be back for more, and I highly recommend it!”
Jillian Bice, Google review
Great experience
“Great experience with first-time bidding in an auction. The staff was great when we picked up the merchandise! Thank you again”
Cathy T., Google review
5. Rest Easy Removals & Auctions
Address: 8892 Montcalm St
Phone: +1 604-809-0770
Business hours:
- Monday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Rest Easy Removals & Auctions is easy to navigate and features a wide variety of items—from furniture, art, tools, and more.
Most of the items come from customers who use their removal service and want to earn a little extra, so just imagine what treasures you might find here.
Everything is photographed and catalogued ahead of time, so buyers can see exactly what they’re bidding on before the auction goes live.
The process is very simple, with auctions usually running for about a week or two.
Many lots start at just $1, which is great for buyers looking for a bargain, but it might not be ideal for sellers hoping to get top dollar for their items.
On the seller side, their team is very organised. They handle pickup for successful bidders, so you don’t have to deal with moving heavy items or coordinating complicated schedules.
We still think their system works well for both buyers and sellers, even if it’s more about making things easy and fast than maximising resale value.
Detailed, thoughtful, honest and steeped in due diligence
“Could not be more satisfied with the services provided by Rob and his team at Rest Easy Removals. Detailed, thoughtful, honest and steeped in due diligence. Our family benefited greatly from knowing that things we no longer needed would find people looking for what might complete their home. The items that didn’t sell made it to those just arriving in Canada looking for their kitchen table, TV and more. Even the recycling and food bank deliveries. Impressed beyond!! They clear out the space and ensure all truly personal items/documents are separated and boxed. Beyond valued service.”
Jody Vance, Google review
The proceeds of our auction were a very pleasant surprise
“We heartily recommend Rest Easy. Plain and simple, they did a fabulous job for us, actually twice this spring. The proceeds of our auction were a very pleasant surprise. Rob and his team are dependable, careful, and just lovely people to work with. Rob certainly knows his business. He and his team know what they’re doing. And, last but not least, the price is right!”
Helen Mendes, Google review
