How Epic Auctions Work — Live, Simulcast, Virtual & Online Formats Explained
A Practical Guide for First-Time and Returning Bidders
Not all auctions work the same way. The format Epic uses for a given sale depends on the estate, the assets involved, the seller's goals, and what will produce the best results for that specific situation. Epic conducts live onsite auctions, simulcast auctions, virtual simulcast auctions, and timed online auctions — and has the experience and technology to determine which format best fits each sale.
Understanding how each format works helps you participate more effectively and know what to expect before, during, and after the sale.
Live Onsite Auctions
A live onsite auction is conducted at the sale location with a professional auctioneer calling bids in real time before a live in-room audience. This is the traditional auction format — lots are sold one at a time at live auction pace, and the sale closes when the auctioneer says sold.
Live onsite auctions can also incorporate online bidding through one or more platforms simultaneously, allowing remote buyers to compete alongside in-room bidders in real time. When online bidding is added to a live onsite auction, it becomes a simulcast.
Epic conducts live onsite auctions when the property, assets, and situation call for it. Brad Stoecker calls bids personally, bringing decades of professional auction experience to every live sale.
Simulcast Auctions — Live Auctioneer, Live Crowd, Multiple Online Platforms
A simulcast auction combines a live in-room auction with simultaneous online bidding across one or more platforms. The auctioneer calls bids in real time, in-room bidders compete alongside online bidders from across the country, and lots close at live auction pace when the auctioneer says sold.
There is no auto-extend feature in a simulcast auction. Lots close in real time as the auctioneer advances through the catalog — just as they would at any traditional live auction.
Epic has been conducting simulcast auctions for over a decade, well ahead of most companies in the region. Running across multiple online platforms simultaneously allows Epic to reach the broadest possible audience of motivated buyers in real time.
Virtual Simulcast Auctions — Live Auctioneer, All Bidders Online
A virtual simulcast auction operates exactly like a simulcast — a professional auctioneer calling bids in real time with lots closing at live auction pace — but with no in-room audience. All bidders participate online through one or more platforms simultaneously.
This format delivers the competitive energy and pace of a live auction while reaching a national online buyer audience. Because all participation is online, buyers from anywhere in the country compete on equal footing in real time with no geographic advantage for local bidders.
Like a standard simulcast, virtual simulcast auctions do not use an auto-extend feature. The reason is technical — there is currently no software that can run a true live simulcast auction across multiple online bidding platforms simultaneously with an auto-extend feature. Running across multiple platforms is what allows Epic to reach the widest possible buyer audience. Lots close in real time when the auctioneer says sold.
Epic began conducting virtual simulcast auctions approximately four years ago and was among the early adopters of this format in Michigan. The virtual simulcast has become an increasingly common format across the auction industry as companies recognize its ability to generate genuine competitive bidding without geographic limitations.
Timed Online Auctions
A timed online auction runs entirely online with no auctioneer calling bids. Lots close on a set schedule, and most timed online platforms include an auto-extend feature — if a bid is placed in the final minutes of a lot's closing time, the window extends briefly to allow other bidders to respond.
Epic uses timed online auctions when this format best fits the sale. For bidders accustomed to online shopping or who prefer to bid at their own pace over an extended sale period, timed online auctions offer a familiar and accessible experience.
How to Participate in an Epic Auction
Register Early
Most online bidding platforms require registration before you can place a bid. Register before the sale begins — not at the last minute. Last-minute registration issues can prevent you from bidding on items you want. Keep your contact and payment information current to ensure a smooth experience when you win.
Review the Catalog in Advance
Every Epic auction includes a catalog with photographs, descriptions, and condition notes. Review the full catalog before the sale begins. If you have questions about a specific item — condition, dimensions, or shipping eligibility — contact us before the sale starts.
Understand the Terms
Read the auction terms before bidding. Key details to note include:
- Buyer's premium — an additional percentage added to the winning bid. Factor this into your maximum bid.
- Pickup schedule — most auctions require pickup within a specific window after the sale closes.
- Shipping availability — confirm whether items you are interested in are eligible for shipping before bidding.
- All sales final — auction items are sold as-is. Review descriptions and photographs carefully before bidding.
Preview Items When Possible
Many Epic auctions offer a preview period before the sale begins. For significant purchases — furniture, firearms, vehicles, equipment, or high-value collectibles — attending a preview is always worthwhile. In-person inspection allows you to evaluate condition and quality in ways photographs alone cannot always convey.
For Live, Simulcast, and Virtual Simulcast Auctions — Be Present
Because live, simulcast, and virtual simulcast auctions run at live auction pace with no auto-extend, you need to be actively participating when your lots come up. Review the catalog in advance so you know approximately when the items you want will sell, and be ready to bid in real time when they do.
Set a Limit and Stick to It
Decide your maximum price before bidding begins and commit to it. Live auction pace creates energy that can make it easy to bid beyond your original intention. Knowing your limit in advance keeps the experience enjoyable and the outcome one you are comfortable with.
For timed online auctions, many platforms allow you to set a maximum bid in advance. The system will bid on your behalf up to your maximum, only increasing your bid as needed to stay competitive.
Shipping and Pickup
Epic offers shipping on many items, allowing buyers outside the Greater Lansing area to participate fully in our auctions. In 2024, Epic's auctions attracted buyers from all 50 states and shipped items to buyers in more than 24 countries.
Before bidding on an item you intend to have shipped, confirm shipping eligibility and factor estimated shipping costs into your bid. Large, fragile, or heavy items may have significant shipping costs or may only be available for local pickup.
If you are located outside Michigan and have questions about shipping specific items, contact us before the sale closes.
Stay Informed About Upcoming Auctions
Epic conducts auctions throughout Greater Lansing and Mid-Michigan, regularly featuring antiques, firearms, jewelry, coins, collectibles, vehicles, tools, farm equipment, and complete estate contents.
To be notified of upcoming auctions before they are widely listed, sign up for auction alerts or visit our upcoming sales page to see what is currently available.
Are You Settling an Estate Rather Than Buying?
If you found this page while researching auctions for an estate you are responsible for settling, we can help with that too. Epic Auctions & Estate Sales works with families, executors, trustees, attorneys, and fiduciaries throughout Michigan to evaluate, market, and sell estate personal property, collections, firearms, vehicles, and real estate.
Visit our Estate Settlement Resources center or call us to discuss your situation.
Serving Greater Lansing and Communities Throughout Michigan
Epic Auctions & Estate Sales serves buyers and sellers throughout Greater Lansing, East Lansing, Okemos, Haslett, DeWitt, Grand Ledge, Mason, Jackson, Mid-Michigan, and surrounding communities. Our auction platform connects Mid-Michigan estates with buyers and collectors throughout the country. In 2024, Epic's auctions attracted buyers from all 50 states and more than 24 countries.
Questions About an Upcoming Auction?
If you have questions about a specific item, pickup, shipping, sale format, or how to participate in an upcoming Epic auction, contact us directly.
Call (517) 927-5028 or visit our contact page.