Promoting the auction method of marketing and enhancing the professionalism of its members is the mission of the National Auctioneers Association.

Founded in 1949, the NAA represents the interests of 6,200 auctioneers in the United States, Canada, Australia and several other countries. These members specialize in the sale of everything from antiques and residential items to real estate and business equipment.

The NAA offers a wide range of business services and benefit programs to its members including affordable health insurance, a 401K retirement and savings plan, discounted continuing education and development programs and savings on travel and office supplies.

Complimentary benefits include a web site and hosting service, the ability to list and link their business web sites to the NAA web site, and promoting their auctions on the NAA's auction calendar, a nationally-known calendar that includes details about members' upcoming auctions. Members also receive a subscription to Auctioneer magazine, the industry's top news and communication resource, and Auction World newspaper.

Membership also guarantees members federal legislative representation, and provides them with ongoing networking opportunities through conferences and on-line forums.

The NAA maintains an affiliation with a number of national organizations to further its mission. These groups include the American Bankruptcy Institute, Livestock Marketing Association, the National Association of Realtors and Farm Credit Council Services, Inc.

Auctioneers who join the NAA must agree to abide by a code of ethics, maintaining the highest of standards. This code protects the public against fraud and unethical auction practices.

Headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., the NAA is governed by a national Board of Directors, all of whom are active members and auctioneers. A number of working committees also serve the membership focusing on areas such as government affairs, public relations and education.

Regular membership fees for active Auctioneers are $300 for a one-year membership or $535 for a two-year membership or $757 for a three-year membership. Individuals prefer to receive all publications and correspondence electronically may join the NAA under a virtual membership ($225). Membership also is open to Associates who are auction-related professionals representing the real estate, finance and legal industries ($225 per year), Affiliate individuals who are not Auctioneers but who are involved in auction or auction-related businesses ($500) and Retired Auctioneers ($175). 

The National Auctioneers Association is the largest national organization of its kind dedicated to preserving the past and promoting the future of the auction industry. To learn more about the NAA and auctions, visit www.auctioneers.org.