About AHA!
Art Haus Auction (AHA!) is a curator-driven online auction platform specializing in contemporary art priced under $10,000. We bring the expertiseirtue of independent curators to a transparent, collector-friendly marketplace.
Our platform serves three communities:
- Collectors — Discover exceptional works through curated "salons" with transparent pricing, clear fees, and reliable shipping.
- Artists — Sell your work with fair economics: keep 85% of the sale price (compared to 50% at traditional galleries) plus earn 10% royalties on all future resales.
- Curators — Host themed auctions, write about the work you believe in, and earn 2% royalties when works you've placed resell.
Timed Auctions
Curated "salons" with anti-sniping protection ensure fair bidding for all participants.
Fixed-Price Gallery
Browse available works at set prices with the option to make offers.
Secure Payments
All transactions processed securely through Stripe with buyer protection.
Managed Shipping
Multiple shipping tiers from standard to white-glove handling with full insurance options.
Services & Goods Offered
What We Sell
AHA! facilitates the sale of original contemporary artworks including:
- Paintings (oil, acrylic, watercolor, mixed media)
- Works on paper (drawings, prints, photographs)
- Sculpture and three-dimensional works
- Digital and new media art
- Limited edition prints and multiples
All works are vetted by our curatorial team. We focus on contemporary art priced under $10,000, making collecting accessible while maintaining quality standards.
How It Works
For Buyers: Browse curated auctions ("salons"), place bids or buy at fixed prices. When you win, your payment is securely processed and held until the artwork arrives and you've had time to inspect it.
For Sellers: Submit your work for curatorial review. Once accepted into a salon, we handle listing, payment processing, and coordinate shipping. You receive payment 14 business days after successful delivery.
Fee Structure
We believe in transparent pricing. Here's exactly what buyers and sellers pay:
| Fee | Rate | Paid By |
|---|---|---|
| Listing Fee | $0 | — |
| Buyer's Premium | 15% | Buyer |
| Seller Commission | 15% | Seller (deducted from sale) |
| Artist Resale Royalty | 10% | Future seller (secondary market) |
| Curator Resale Royalty | 2% | Future seller (secondary market) |
| Payment Processing | Included | Platform (absorbed) |
Example: On a $1,000 winning bid, the buyer pays $1,150 ($1,000 + 15% premium) plus shipping and applicable sales tax. The seller receives $850 ($1,000 minus 15% commission).
Shipping Costs
Shipping is charged separately based on artwork size, destination, and selected service tier:
- Standard — $30–$100 (artist packs, prepaid carrier label)
- Protected — $50–$200 (artist packs, full insurance included)
- White Glove — $200–$1,000+ (professional crating, climate-controlled transport, installation)
Policies
Returns & Refunds
All sales on AHA! are final. However, we stand behind authenticity and accurate representation:
- Inspection Period: Buyers have 48 hours after confirmed delivery to inspect the artwork and report any issues.
- Condition Disputes: If an artwork arrives significantly different from its listing description or is damaged in transit, contact us immediately. We will mediate between buyer and seller to reach a fair resolution, which may include a full refund.
- Authenticity Guarantee: If an artwork is proven to be inauthentic, we will issue a full refund to the buyer.
- Damaged in Transit: Claims for shipping damage must be filed within 48 hours of delivery with photographic documentation. Protected and White Glove shipping tiers include full insurance coverage.
Refunds, when approved, are processed within 5–7 business days to the original payment method.
Dispute Resolution
If a dispute arises between buyer and seller:
- Contact AHA! support within 48 hours of delivery.
- Provide documentation (photos, correspondence, tracking info).
- Our team will review and mediate within 5 business days.
- Funds remain in escrow until the dispute is resolved.
If mediation fails, either party may pursue resolution through standard legal channels. See our full Terms of Service for details.
Cancellation Policy
For Buyers: Bids placed in auctions are binding commitments. Once you place a bid, you cannot cancel unless you are outbid. If you win an auction and fail to complete payment within 24 hours, your account may be suspended.
For Sellers: Once an artwork is listed in an active auction, it cannot be withdrawn except in extraordinary circumstances (damage, loss, etc.). Contact us immediately if you need to discuss withdrawal.
Shipping Policy
Artwork is shipped after payment clears. Sellers have 5 business days to ship after auction close.
- Domestic (US) delivery: typically 5–10 business days
- International delivery: typically 10–21 business days (customs delays may apply)
- Tracking is provided for all shipments
- Signature required for delivery on all orders
Buyers are responsible for any customs duties, import taxes, or brokerage fees for international orders.
Legal Restrictions
Some artworks may be subject to export restrictions or require permits. AHA! will notify buyers if any known restrictions apply to a specific lot. Buyers are responsible for understanding and complying with import regulations in their destination country.
We do not sell items that violate US export law, CITES regulations (for works containing protected materials), or sanctions requirements.
Contact Us
Get in Touch
Our team is here to help with questions about buying, selling, or partnering with AHA!
Business Information
Legal Name: Art Haus Auction LLC
Location: New York, NY, United States