Emma WhiteI’ve recently fallen into the rabbit hole of collecting vintage jackets and boots. I’d been eyeing a pair for ages, and when I finally found them, they turned up at an estate downsizing auction (because let’s be honest, a good pair of boots doesn’t lose its charm just because the owner did).
The whole experience was surprisingly thrilling—part shopping spree, part adrenaline rush—thanks to those intense bidding wars that make your heart race faster than your paddle.
So, my team and I decided to explore and review the best auction houses in Ottawa. Keep reading to find out where you can score (or sell!) your next great find.
How much do auction houses in Ottawa charge?
Auction houses in Ottawa commonly charge 25-35% commission on items sold through consignment for small-lot/value items, with tiered rates dropping to about 10%-15% for higher value lots.
1. MacLean & Associates Inc.
Address: Warehouse by appointment only, 1523 Laperriere Ave
Phone: +1 613-724-2845
Business hours: Auction notice
Since 1999, MacLean & Associates Inc. has built a solid presence in the industry, helping both sellers and buyers get what they want.
We like that they have a diverse selection of items. Think furniture, art, coins, stamps, vehicles, home decor, vintage/retro items, and more, which means you can sell or buy multiple things in one place instead of piecing out different specialists.
Speaking of specialists, their experts provide appraisal services (even for legal or estate purposes), helping consignors set realistic reserves and reduce unwanted surprises.
On that note, with all the offerings, we find their hybrid auction format incredibly handy. If you can’t go in-person, their listings online include full descriptions, photos, soft-close bidding, and they emphasize that items are sold “as is, where is,” giving you a benchmark for expectations.
Their on-site preview is by appointment only, though. So, dropping by unannounced to check things out is a no-go.
That aside, we have to give them props for offering services to make buyers’ lives easier. They can provide packaging, moving, cleaning, estate downsizing, and coordination.
The most amazing items
“Always get the most amazing items from MacLean and Associates. I look forward to every auction. Keep up the great work.”
Krista Shibata, Google Review
Professional and extremely knowledgeable
“Working under very tight time constraints to empty a house, Diane was instrumental in making the job easier. In her calm way, she went through the house and identified items that we could auction off. She was very professional and extremely knowledgeable. I am very happy that I was referred to MacLean and Associates.”
Kobi, Google Review
2. Pridham’s | A.H. Wilkens Ottawa
Address: 440 Laurier Ave W #200
Phone: +1 877-533-5877
Business hours: Auction calendar
Pridham’s stands out for their specialization in high-end art and antiques. It can be quite tricky and sensitive, since it can pose more risks.
To give you peace of mind, they combine expert opinion, historical comparables, and databases to set fair estimates based on results from the past couple of years. We love how this process leaves you very little doubt about being ripped off or duped.
It’s also worth mentioning that they have a strong partnership with A.H. Wilkens, expanding their reach (Toronto, Montreal) and access to larger facilities and collector networks—more exposure for consignors.
The same sort of flexibility for buyers as well, given that you can bid in person, via webcast/online, by telephone, or in absentia. This means you don’t even have to be a local to score the pieces or items you want.
However, for those who want to view things in person, you’d have to book an appointment first; a spontaneous drop-in won’t be possible. Still, we can’t deny that their credibility is reliable and trustworthy.
Service is consistent
“We have purchased several items from Pridham’s auction house. The service is consistent, helpful and professional throughout the purchasing process. We highly recommend this auction house and would like to thank Bianca for her help.”
Yolanta Bertram, Google Review
Quick response and professional service
“I recently had the pleasure of doing business with Pridhams. The Personal service they provided with quick response and professional service was unlike any other auction house. Thanks to Josee and Cassia.”
Gary Bardsley, Google Review
3. Spooner Auctions Inc.
Address: 501 Golden Ave
Phone: +1 613-220-1212
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 4 PM
Spooner Auction has been in the game for over 50 years across three generations. This shows that they’ve survived and thrived in the market changes over time, making them reliable to both consignors and buyers.
We also like that there are lots of chances to snag all kinds of collectibles (sellers can also sell more items!). Their range includes the sale of paintings, jewelry, silver, bronze, antiques, oriental carpets, rosewood furniture, coins, watches, etc.
They don’t just auction single items, either. We learned that you can rely on them for full estate concerns, helping families or executors to liquidate across many categories in one coordinated sale.
Plus, it’s neat that they have a showroom or warehouse you can visit, and you can walk in during weekdays. With these, you can inspect the items up close if you’re not satisfied with online descriptions.
Just note that their details on commissions or premiums aren’t explicit, so consignors or buyers would have to ask or negotiate.
Items are superb and as described
“We bought some lovely Ola Gorie jewelry and Moonstone pendant from the Spooners and although we initally believed there was an issue with the items, it was our mistake. The items are superb and as described. Please accept our apologies and thank you for your understanding and your offers of assitance. Great auction house, we will buy again.”
Alan Craig, Google Review
Prompt customer service
“Professional auction prompt customer service Fine Antiques and lots offered on their online auctions. Quick delivery to London Ontario by courier. Excellent a pleasure doing business! Neil Anderson”
Neil Anderson, Google Review
4. Sparks Auctions
Address: 824 Meath St #300
Phone: +1 613-567-3336
Business hours: Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
What’s unique about Sparks Auctions is that they have a niche specialization in stamps and postal history. So, if you’re the one selling, you can hope that they attract serious collectors and help in appealing to the right audience.
If you’re the collector, it’s convenient that they maintain a regular cycle of auctions and have a physical location where you can get a closer look at the items.
Another feature that makes things easier for us is how they allow bidders to participate in different ways, like by mail, fax, telephone, and in person. This is good for consignors too, since it would mean more chances of having a bigger participation.
The downside? If you’re looking for or planning to sell other things like antiques, art, or non-stamp collectibles, then this auction house isn’t for you.
On a positive note, you do get global exposure because many philatelists follow Sparks’ auctions.
Extremely well-managed
“An amazing auction house in Ottawa. Extremely well managed and cared for. Been participating for a couple of years and am surely coming back for more”
Sam M. 4TopNotes, Google Review
Professional and personable
“Professional and personable. Very good at communicating and “the details”. Records provided are best of all, in my experience with 4 other auction houses.”
Bruce Toms, Google Review
5. Rideau Auctions Inc
Address: 2250 County Rd 31, Winchester
Phone: +1 613-774-7000
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
We love how Rideau Auctions Inc. doesn’t overstate when they say they offer a wide product variety. You see, they offer things such as vehicles, heavy equipment, furniture, electronics, seized goods, and an assortment of miscellaneous stuff.
In other words, consignors get to put more items up for auction, and buyers get to have a wider selection from different categories.
And given the nature of other items, they let bidders view all auction items in person before placing any bids. This is crucial, especially when it comes to cars or pricey equipment.
Luckily, you’ll have all week to visit, which is a big plus since most auction houses run by appointment only or are closed on weekends.
Here’s the thing, though: the actual bidding is online only, so if you’re hoping for the thrill and rush of a live physical auction room, then this might be a dealbreaker.
Nonetheless, Rideau Auctions is a trustworthy auction house—they’re even an official liquidation partner of Ottawa’s police.
Amazing customer service
“You will find what you need but in a cheaper price. Amazing customer service.”
Zizi Abood, Google Review
Run a good clean auction
“Bought several vehicles from these fine folks for my shop . They run a good clean auction with rules. The ladies on the admin side in the office are all super to deal with A++”
Todd G, Google Review
