The real answer isn’t about preference — it’s about strategy.

Comparison of live and online auctions; a raised hand at a podium versus hands using a laptop. Text:

Live vs Online Auctions:

Which Is Better?

If you’re buying or selling assets in Vermont or across New England, you may wonder: is a live auction better than an online auction?


The real answer isn’t about preference — it’s about strategy.


The effectiveness of an auction format depends on:

  • The type of asset being sold
  • How buyers behave in that market
  • Geographic reach
  • Timeline objectives
  • Competitive dynamics


At The Thomas Hirchak Company, auction format is never random. Each event is structured intentionally to maximize participation and performance.


We primarily use three formats:

  • Live auctions for real estate
  • Simulcast auctions for public auto
  • Online-only auctions for equipment, tools, firearms, and commercial assets


Let’s break down how each works — and why format alignment matters.



What Is a Live Auction?

A live auction takes place in person, with an auctioneer calling bids before a gathered audience.


At THC, live auctions are reserved for real estate transactions.



Why Live Works for Real Estate

Properties — whether residential homes in Burlington, commercial buildings in Rutland, or land parcels across Vermont — benefit from:

  • In-person competitive energy
  • Immediate decision-making
  • A defined sale moment
  • Transparent bidding progression
  • Psychological momentum


When buyers are physically present, urgency intensifies. Real estate buyers respond strongly to visible competition, and that often drives decisive outcomes.


You can explore current real estate auction events here:
👉 https://www.thcauction.com/real-estate



What Is a Simulcast Auction?

A simulcast auction combines:

  • A live, on-site auctioneer
  • Real-time online bidding happening simultaneously


At THC, this format is used exclusively for Public Auto Auctions.


Why Simulcast Works for Vehicles

Vehicles perform differently than real estate or industrial equipment. Buyers may prefer:

  • Inspecting vehicles in person
  • Bidding remotely from across the region
  • Flexible participation options


Simulcast auctions create:

  • On-site momentum
  • Expanded geographic reach
  • Larger total bidder pools
  • Real-time competition


Public auto buyers from across the Nation can participate without being physically present.


Learn more about Public Auto Auctions here:
👉 https://www.thcauction.com/public-auto-auctions



What Is an Online-Only Auction?

Online-only auctions take place over a scheduled bidding period through a digital platform.


At THC, this format is used for:

  • Equipment
  • Contractor tools
  • Commercial liquidations
  • Firearms & sporting goods
  • Restaurant equipment
  • Multi-category estate assets


Why Online Works for Equipment & Commercial Assets

Online auctions offer:

  • National buyer participation
  • Extended bidding windows
  • Greater convenience
  • Larger bidder databases
  • Structured soft-close protections


For contractors, manufacturers, or commercial sellers throughout New England, online-only auctions dramatically increase exposure beyond local buyers.


Most online events use a soft-close format, meaning if a bid is placed near closing time, the lot’s closing window extends briefly. This prevents last-second bidding tactics and ensures fair competition.


You can explore current online auction events here:
👉 https://www.thcauction.com/online-auctions



Why We Match Format to Asset Type

There is no one-size-fits-all auction.


At The Thomas Hirchak Company:

  • Real estate thrives in live settings
  • Vehicles perform best with simulcast competition
  • Equipment and commercial assets succeed online


Matching format to asset type increases:

  • Bidder participation
  • Competitive tension
  • Market-based pricing
  • Overall efficiency


Using the wrong format can limit buyer reach. Using the right format creates structured competition.


If you're evaluating how to sell assets, our selling process overview can help clarify your options:
👉 https://www.thcauction.com/sell-with-us



Which Format Is Better for Sellers?

For sellers, the “best” format depends on:

  • Asset category
  • Buyer demand
  • Geographic target market
  • Timeline goals
  • Marketing scope


For example:

Selling property in Vermont?
→ A live auction may generate the strongest in-person competitive environment.


Selling fleet vehicles?
→ Simulcast allows broader participation while retaining live momentum.


Selling equipment or commercial inventory?

→ Online-only auctions expand exposure across the Northeast and nationally.


Strategic format selection often makes a measurable difference in performance.



Which Format Is Better for Buyers?

Buyers have preferences too.


Those who prefer:

  • Face-to-face competitive bidding → Live auction
  • Flexibility with remote access → Simulcast
  • Time to research and bid strategically → Online-only


Online catalogs allow buyers to review item details, compare lots, and plan bidding decisions carefully.



Why Format Strategy Matters

Auction success isn’t simply about listing assets — it’s about delivery.


When format aligns with buyer behavior:

  • Participation increases
  • Momentum builds
  • Confidence rises
  • Final pricing reflects competitive demand


At THC, format selection is asset-driven and experience-based.



Final Thoughts

Live, simulcast, and online auctions are all powerful tools — when used strategically.


Real estate performs best in live settings.


Public auto auctions benefit from simulcast energy.


Equipment and commercial assets succeed with online exposure.


The most important question isn’t “Which format is better?”
It’s “Which format best fits the asset?”


When auction structure aligns with buyer behavior, results follow.




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✍️ About The Author

The Thomas Hirchak Company is a Vermont-based auction and real estate firm serving buyers and sellers across New England and beyond. With decades of experience conducting live real estate auctions, simulcast public auto auctions, and online equipment and commercial asset auctions, THC strategically matches auction format to asset type to deliver competitive, structured results.


Learn more at https://www.thcauction.com




FAQ's

  • What type of auctions does THC conduct?

    The Thomas Hirchak Company conducts live auctions for real estate, simulcast auctions for public auto sales, and online-only auctions for equipment, firearms, commercial liquidations, and multi-category assets.

  • Why are real estate auctions conducted live?

    Real estate benefits from the urgency and visible competition created by in-person bidding, helping produce decisive outcomes.

  • What is a simulcast auction?

    A simulcast auction combines live, on-site bidding with real-time online participation.

  • What is a soft close in an online auction?

    A soft close extends bidding time if a bid is placed near closing, preventing last-second tactics and encouraging fair competition.

  • Who should consider bidding in this auction?

    Machinists, mechanics, fabrication shops, contractors, farmers, collectors, and tool buyers throughout Vermont and New England may find valuable equipment and shop tools in this auction.

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