When people think of purchasing second hand items, auction houses may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, licensed auctioneer Tina Murphy, and owner of Magnolia Gardens Auction House in Hockley, shares the benefits of an auction and how her business has grown over the years. “You’re getting antiques, and you’re getting one of a kind,” she said. “You’re getting things that you won’t find in a store. That’s the beauty of an auction house.”
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Magnolia Gardens began hosting auctions via Facebook Live. The change from in-house-only auctions has allowed them to reach more buyers and showcase a wider variety of pieces.
Magnolia Gardens holds two Facebook Live sales every week – one on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. and another on Saturdays at 7 p.m. “Groovy Tuesdays” offer a wide range of general merchandise from kitchen appliances and clothes to dishware and Christmas decorations.
On Saturdays, buyers have the option to join online or visit the auction house in person. Tina is a captivating auctioneer; attending her auctions is an unforgettable and fun experience. Saturday auctions provide more high-end pieces, such as antiques, jewelry, rugs, and furniture. “The auction is beautiful because there is such a variety of merchandise,” Murphy said. “All under one house. All under one roof.”
With the steady increase in retail prices, shopping second hand has recently grown in popularity. Murphy explains that attending an auction gives people an opportunity to purchase quality pieces at reasonable prices. “For someone in their 30s or 40s who are buying homes or just starting out, this is great furniture,” Murphy said. “This is something that I would have in my house, and because I am pretty picky about what comes in, it’s not going to be junky.”
Since Magnolia Gardens collects new merchandise each week, Murphy carefully curates each event to ensure bidders receive a unique experience at every auction, regardless of one’s price range.
Murphy said those who are interested in bidding are welcome to stop by the auction house to view items in person whenever their doors are open. She also posts tutorials and photos of items on Facebook. Bidders must register at least one hour before an auction by calling the auction house, but once registered, Murphy said they are registered for all auctions.
“It doesn’t matter if you spend $25 a week, or you spend $5,000 with me,” Murphy said. “Every single person is important. Every single bid is important. And everybody is treated the same. That $25 bid is just as important as the $5,000 bid.”