Didn`t think about the phrasing they used but you are right,, sounds a bit off !! I think many auction houses use a 25% standard fee here. Of course if a major auction sells it chances are it might bring more than the estimate !! Of course it could stay at the estimated price or lower,, you just don`t know !! If there is a good gallery in his town he could see if he could consign it to them for sale !! Might be his best bet !! That way he could add a bit to the price to help cover their fees !! But some of the galleries charge 20 to 25% !! So its a toss up as to what is best !!