GOING ONCE, GOING TWICE, SOLD: Spears plans on using auctioneering skills to pursue career

For Casey County High School senior Chris Spears, auctioneering isn’t just something that’s a skill, it’s something that’s been a part of his life for years. 

His interest began when his father, Tim, started auctioneering 10 years ago, and watching him work inspired Chris to try it himself.

“It just kind of seemed cool to me how fast he could talk with numbers,” he said. 

Spears started learning how to auctioneer at 10 years old, spending about four years practicing before he was able to specialize in it.

Since then, Spears has worked for Ford Brothers Auctioneers in Somerset. He’s been part of a huge number of auctions, so many that he has lost track. 

For him, one of the best parts of auctioneering is working with the crowd and the ringmen to make the sale exciting. But it’s not always easy. 

“The most challenging part is getting your chant down and making sure it sounds smooth,” he said. 

Developing that rhythm takes time, patience, and practice.

One of Spears’ most memorable experiences was in 2024, when he competed at the state level for the first time. Without knowing what to expect, he went in, did his best, and placed second in the state. 

That accomplishment showed him how far he had come since he started.

When it comes to running an auction, Spears uses his knowledge and instinct. 

Before bidding begins, he studies the items and usually starts them at about half their market value. He also explained that the owner sometimes sets a “reserve price,” a minimum price the item has to reach before it will sell.

Going forward, Spears sees auctioneering as his future career. Besides the fast talking, what keeps him interested is how the work helps people. 

“[Estate auctions] really help take a burden off families after a loved one passes”, he said, noting that it is one of the most rewarding parts of being an auctioneer. 

One thing that’s stuck with him came from a mentor, advice he said will guide him as he pursues a career as an auctioneer and in life in general.

“Speed is an illusion; smooth is fast.”