It would appear to me that venues such as the Barrett-Jackson auction are NOT for the "average" guy looking for a classic car! I didn't see too many daily driver-type cars there, most of the cars sold were perfect, trailer queen types that belong in a museum (or a rich guy's climate-controlled garage).
And, I don't think we'll find too many "average" folks bidding there, either. At least, not average guy who know a little about the car they're buying! What average guy, in his right mind, would pay the entry fee, the 8% sales commission, etc., etc., PLUS the absolute top, retail price for a desired car?
These televised auctions are for rich collector, not everyday folks, no matter what Craig Jackson says. In fact, WE all know that we could get a similar, 90% restored car for a fraction of the price of some of these vehicles.
I can't imagine a scenario in which I'd attempt to buy a car at Barrett-Jackson. It's a fantasy show, not a car sale!