Why do auctioneers talk so fast?

Consider it “insider speak”. Every discipline has its own unique methodologies and terminologies. Have you ever heard two doctors or program coders talk? If you’re not educated in the manner that they are, it seems like gibberish.

Auctions are serious and big business. Those who attend them regularly have earned their positions at the table, having educated themselves in the school of hard knocks. They cannot risk being insulted by random bidders who do not respect the protocols. The fast speak is one of the ways the Auction industry can protect the regulars who’ve paid their due diligence honing the necessary skills. Outsiders are welcome, but they must earn their way to the table by spending the time necessary to learn the language.

Speed is a factor when an entire estate is up for auction. There can be thousands of things to sell and the whole purpose of auctions is to move stuff quickly. Lots more money could probably be made if things were sold individually with dickering but that process would go on for eons.

By talking very quickly they create a sense of urgency that might drive people to place higher bids than they might ordinarily.

To overwhelm you so you’ll agree to anything. ;)

Otherwise the auction would go on forever. It’s simply to shorten its length.