In the room, on the radio, in the sky: Vic Lorusso on the auction floor
Auctioneer Vic Lorusso brings two decades of experience—and a familiar voice—to the front lawns of the Northern Beaches. Working closely with The North Agency’s Chris Aldren, the pair unpack the energy, trust, and strategy that go into a standout auction campaign in today’s shifting Sydney property market.
- Written byJulia Ohmenzetter
“Auctions are about creating competition, urgency, and emotion to deliver the strongest possible result in the current market.”
For most people on the Northern Beaches, the voice of Vic Lorusso is already familiar. As the energetic, ever-present traffic reporter heard across Sydney’s radio airwaves and Ten News helicopter broadcasts, Lorusso has long been part of the city’s background noise — a reassuring voice in peak-hour chaos. But on Saturdays, that same voice takes on a different kind of command: one that can shape the outcome of a property sale.
“I’ve been an auctioneer for close to 20 years now,” says Lorusso. “What drew me in was the energy of the auction floor — there’s nothing quite like the intensity and excitement of live bidding.”
Vic isn’t interested in putting on a show for the sake of it. His approach is grounded in clarity, trust, and an intuitive feel for people. “A great auctioneer reads the room, controls the pace, builds energy, and gives buyers confidence. They strike the right balance between entertainment and professionalism,” he says. “And most importantly, they create a platform that helps deliver the best possible outcome for the vendor.”
“Trust is everything. When it’s strong, everyone works toward the same goal with clarity and purpose.”
At The North Agency, Vic’s long-term working relationship with director Chris Aldren is built on mutual understanding. “Vic and I have worked together for ten years. He knows how I work, and I know how he works,” says Aldren. “That means communication is tight. It doesn’t need to be overdone. We’re already aligned before auction day.”
That alignment, Vic says, is everything. “A strong relationship between the auctioneer and the agency is critical. We need to be aligned on strategy, buyer interest, and vendor expectations,” he explains. “Agencies like TNA that communicate clearly, prep very well, and trust the process make a huge difference. When we’re working in sync, the result speaks for itself.”
Over the years, Vic has noticed a clear evolution in buyer behaviour. “Buyers today are much more educated,” he says. “They’re doing their homework and want to feel confident they’re buying value. Regardless of market conditions, that mindset hasn’t changed.”
Chris agrees: “The market is selective. If you don’t pitch a listing at the right price from day one, you miss that buyer who might’ve paid more than someone else. First impressions are everything.”
“Do your research. Know your limit. Auctions can move fast — get familiar with the process and ask questions ahead of time.”
Auctions continue to hold an edge, especially when it comes to momentum. “Transparency, speed, competition and deadlines are huge advantages,” says Vic. “And a property doesn’t need to sell under the hammer to be a success. Often, competitive tension carries through post-auction and ends in a strong result.”
For sellers preparing to go to auction, Vic’s advice is clear: “Presentation is key. Trust your agent’s strategy, and be realistic about market expectations. Set a reserve that reflects the market, and be open-minded on the day.”
And for first-time bidders? “Do your research. Know your limit. Auctions can move fast — get familiar with the process and ask questions ahead of time. And most importantly, register early and be ready to act confidently when the time comes.”
After two decades on the auction floor, Vic has seen his share of unforgettable moments. But it’s not always the price that stays with him. “One that stands out was a family home that hadn’t been sold in over 40 years,” he recalls. “The emotion in the crowd, the family’s connection to the home… it sold well above reserve, but it was the atmosphere and legacy that made it unforgettable.”
In a market that continues to evolve, Vic remains unshaken. “I’m as passionate about it as I was the day I started,” he says. “Every auction is different. That’s what keeps it exciting.”
