Insider Tips

Weather

Scottsdale is usually warm — about 60 or 70 degrees in January — but it’s always chilly when the sun sets. Dress in layers and be ready for anything; it snowed during the auctions in 2006.

Attire

Start with your most comfortable shoes; you’ll be on your feet much of the day. Casual clothes are welcome everywhere, and sunscreen, cash and your camera are musts. These are great car shows as well as auctions.

Parking/Driving Tips

Arrive early, and whenever possible, buy your tickets or bidders passes in advance to cut down on your wait time in line.

Dos and Don’ts

DO your homework ahead of time and organize the information on all the cars you are interested in. Use a checklist, not your memory, to organize your observations and the facts pertinent to your purchase

DO bring along a good price guide, like Hagerty Price Guide, to assist you with appropriate values for the cars you are considering. 

DO decide the highest price you are willing to pay for each vehicle — and stick to it.

DO communicate with a bidder’s assistant and make sure they’re aware that you intend to bid on a vehicle.

DO pace yourself and be patient— many of the best value vehicles will run early or late in the day.

DON’T pass up an opportunity when it presents itself. If you’ve done your homework ahead of time, you’ll be prepared for that vehicle that has slipped under the crowd’s radar.

DON’T overindulge at the bidder’s bar—too much alcohol can alter your judgment at a time when you need your wits about you.

DON’T buy a car without knowing it’s insured properly, especially before it gets moved or driven.