In 1995, the Paris City Council decided to carry out an in-depth review of management principles and methods in the private sector. Private sector properties are to be auctioned by the Paris Chamber of Notaries. In 1999, a sale has been planned for every month except August. Schedule of the auction.
Auctions are to take place live.
The last and highest bidder will be awarded the sale. Two small wicks are lit. Bids are made while they are burning. When the flames go out, they emit smoke which shows that they are no longer alight. The sale is declared at the last bid after the extinction of both flames.